As they say, it was a simpler time. The dam builders hired unemployed workers, paid them cheaply, and violently broke up any attempts at unionizing or collective bargaining. Over 100 workers were killed during construction. There was of course no environmental impact statement or review; to the contrary, it was broadly taken for granted that it was man's destiny and duty to "improve the land" through massive engineering projects.

Think about the same project being attempted now. Unemployment is now officially pretty low, but I believe the numbers omit people who are "underemployed", (e.g. part time when they would prefer full, no longer looking for work). Pay would likely be very low, and unions have been pretty much busted, so no more collective bargaining. Maybe fewer would die. Environmental review would probably take place, but a large enough corporation seems to be able to bully its way through anything. The main difference I see is that corporations have become more expert at modifying the system to suit their own interests.

And of course, this country is no longer capable of doing large projects (or even basic maintenance) because congress is completely broken. How's that highway trust fund coming along?

As I get older, among my regrets are not having gone to see either the Grand Canyon, or the Hoover Dam. I have half-made plans to take the trip, some day.

They aren't that far apart. If you haven't gone by now, I assume it's because you can't stand Las Vegas? Me too, but there was an event there that I couldn't resist, and so Hoover Dam was just a short drive.

> I assume it's because you can't stand Las Vegas?

Haha, I have no idea because I haven't been there, but you're right that I can't stand even the idea of Las Vegas :-)