America may boast highly efficient labour and capital markets, but these advantages are partly offset by poor primary and secondary education, run-down public infrastructure, and inadequate saving that makes the country dependent on foreign capital.

ECONOMIST: Glittering economic prizes

Even so, real income per person remained stagnant throughout the 19th century, perhaps because an inadequate education system and an economy dependent on slaves producing commodities for export combined to get in the way of development.

ECONOMIST: Getting it together at last

Inadequate practical support to help older people at home, with transport, or with care for dependent spouses and other family presents another barrier to treatment.

BBC: Elderly cancer treatment 'shame'