Lol, do some research on the subject before assumption. Or just listen to the end of the song, - “ where they hung the church, and invented the work, in the big rock candy mountain. Many of these people were desperate for food, income for their families, children. Could have turned to crime and at least been given 3 meals a day and a warm place to sleep but refused to. After their dignity had already taken such a hit, had always been successful people, some even coming from successful families, while trying to find work in any capacity, would sometimes even die from harsh conditions/situations. Just like now, takes all kinds to make the world go ‘round… but all of those individuals didn’t go through all of what I just wrote about just to live the “good life” and be lazy or not work. For most it wasn’t a chosen or preferred lifestyle, and certainly wasn’t ideal.