One of the most interesting aspects of the archaeology is the concentration of wealth. Much of what we have of ancient civs is the remnant the wealthy minority left us. The story of history to date is one in which wealth becomes more and more generalized.
How many Americans would trade their current lifestyle for the lifestyle of any historical king up to the early 20th century?
Not me. Give me flush toilets ... and antibiotics, anesthesia, and air conditioning.
However, I don't understand why I can't have those things and also have cool clothes.