Sacrificing an IdentityMany aspects of American society are explored in the novel Ragtime. The reader understands the history and difficulties of different social classes, races and cultures during the last century. An established persistent theme is the existence of the American Dream. Doctorow expresses his fascination with social mobility as it includes the poor and disenfranchised. However, he points out that when trying to achieve success, you need to make sacrifices, negotiating your morality and identity. Tateh and Coalhouse are crucial examples of how the demands, prejudices, and opportunities of American society can change a man's mindset. During his escalation from poverty to the upper class, Tateh is forced to give up his social beliefs and identity, deeming it necessary. to achieve a better life for himself and his daughter. Their lives began as many European immigrants did, living in public housing. Similar to many who live in poverty and are socialists, Tateh criticizes the upper class and bourgeoisie in the negative spotlight, "his heart... indignant" when he "looked at the buildings" (Ragtime 15). These beliefs lead him to become part of a strike in Massachusetts. It is obvious to the reader that Tateh is thrilled at the prospect of being shot dead rather than starving to death, however, Tateh's life is ironic as he detests the rich and yet desires to achieve such fortune. .Another point in the novel, he shows detachment towards Americans which is seen in his relationship with Evelyn Nesbitt One morning, Evelyn shows up at his door and he hesitantly "welcomes" her. Indeed, “Tateh was scandalized by her visit” who in “great agitation smoked a cigarette, in the middle of a sheet of paper…triumph is the centerpiece of all the American dreams illustrated by Doctorow. Tateh and Coalhouse are key examples of how the demands, prejudices, and opportunities of American society can transform a man's mindset. Doctorow highlights his concerns with American capitalism and his overwhelming disdain for the stress that people attribute to money and power. universal essence of capitalism which is warily guarded against, not only for the social problems it creates, but also for the lust it thrives on. Coalhouse's financial success causes him to ignore the social issues affecting his race capitalism that causes Walker to be apathetic towards the plight of his people Doctorow only puts the allure of wealth in a negative light and highlights the carelessness that humans show in trying to achieve the typical American dream of wealth and success..