1930s: America is in the middle of the Great Depression. Small businesses like the one in the play have a difficult time avoiding bankruptcy.

Today: Independent gas stations and restaurants are increasingly rare, as both industries are dominated by franchise businesses.

1930s: America has a fascination with the exploits of gangsters such as John Dillinger, Pretty Boy Floyd, Bonnie and Clyde, and Baby Face Nelson.

Today: A whole category of rap music is dedicated to the exploits of "gangstas."

1930s: A young woman living in the Arizona desert could only dream of what France was like.

Today: Any person with an internet connection can find endless information about daily life in France from the World Wide Web.

1930s: Because of laws and traditions that require races to remain separated, law-abiding blacks are likely to participate in society as paid servants, such as cooks, butlers...