The Costellos along with the Faheys are fictional mid-western families depicted from the 1900's to the 1950's. During the "Great Depression" years, the Faheys experience the humiliation of the "welfare state." The Costellos, however, thrive and prosper in the same economic climate. The terrible "Great War" of 1914 to 1918 impacts both families to a degree that doesn't become apparent until many years after it ends. Despite the wide disparity, not only in fortune but philosophy, the families merge through a marriage. During those depression years, both families' fortunes and futures are affected by the anomaly of hoodlums and gangsters being elevated to the status of folk heroes. Conversely, by the same tortured logic, many considered all rich to be robber barons. World War II finds both families with sons and friends in the Pacific and European conflicts. Their actions of love, passion, heroism, and shame impacts their children and grandchildren for ensuing generations.