Please take some time to read the article I linked below, Cggma. Read what he (Angelo Codevilla) says about the "Country Class" (as opposed to the "Ruling Class"). It may answer some of your questions. It's rather long, but not only is it a fascinating read, it's an eye opener, IMO.
America's Ruling Class -- And the Perils of Revolution
Thanks again to mewzilla for leading me to the article.