From the earliest days of the republic, rich white men have had a disproportionate say in the fate of the country. Founding fathers George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison all came from wealthy land-owning families.
Money and connections have long helped scions of America’s wealthiest families realize their presidential dreams. These political dynasties include the Adams and the Bushes. However, not all of America’s presidents started off rich; some made all of their money after serving as commander in chief. The annual salary for the president of the United States is $400,000.
24/7 Wall Street analyzed the finances of American presidents and adjusted the figures for inflation to December 2018 levels. The online financial news company considered assets such as real estate, work savings, inheritance, book royalties, ownership of companies, profits from family estates, and other forms of income.
