In Lorraine Hansberry’s, "A Raisin in the Sun," there is a quest among characters for the American Dream. The play’s setting plays a crucial role in the differing dreams of Walter, Ruth, Beneatha, and Mama; the social, economic, and political climate of the 1950’s was an interesting time for African Americans. The, “better life,” that each of the family members is searching for is very different, but the motivation behind their search is very similar. They all care about each other and want what’s best for the family. None of their dreams are selfish, although some can be viewed as more valid and pragmatic than others. After analyzing A Raisin in the Sun, it becomes evident that even though Walter means well for his family, his notion of the American Dream is initially too shallow to come to fruition. It isn’t until the last act of the play that Walter realizes what his priorities should have been. The rest of the family supports him throughout the play even though they have conflicting dreams. Ruth, Beneatha, and Mama all support Walter even though it hinders the possibility of their own dreams coming true, which makes this play about family so meaningful. At the start of the play, Walter can be seen as being materialistic. At one time, Walter might have viewed the American Dream as the story of a man who starts out with nothing rising up in the world through hard work and perseverance. This turns into Walter idolizing money and wanting to become wealthy as quickly as possible. Walter is envious of Charlie Atkins and his dry cleaning business. He is disappointed that he missed an opportunity to go into business with Charlie and now the dry cleaning business is grossing over $100,000 a year. Ruth comments on Charlie’s questionable character, but Walter is solely focused on the money that his business is bringing in. When Mama asks Walter why he cares so much about money, he responds by saying that money is life. Mama responds by saying, “Oh-so now it’s life. Money is life. Once upon a time freedom use to be life-now it’s money. I guess the world really do change,” (Hansberry, 74). Walter says that is has always been about money, they just hadn’t realized it. Mama clearly dis