Question

How does the creation of the “Four-Hundred List” contribute to the idea of “Keeping Up With the Joneses”?

Answer 1

"Keeping up with the Joneses" is an idiom, or popular phrase, that refers to the pressure to 'keep up' with your neighbor's social status, wealth or popularity. One explanation is that the Joneses were a prominent, they began to build country mansions in the Hudson Valley. The Jonese had build up their wealth and enjoyed a grand lifestyle. Being on the "Four hundred list" was a sign of respect and popularity, and as a result, earning a spot on it became very competitive.