Thamer inherited much of her wealth, including a hotel, two buildings, and several farms.

NPR: Being Rich, and Careful, in Liberated Iraq

Ms. MARIAM THAMER(ph) (Iraqi): (Through Translator) I'm very afraid of other people's envy.

NPR: Being Rich, and Careful, in Liberated Iraq

Ms. THAMER: (Through Translator) How do you expect me to wear decent things when there is no security in the country?

NPR: Being Rich, and Careful, in Liberated Iraq

So Thamer dresses like her servants do.

NPR: Being Rich, and Careful, in Liberated Iraq

People like Mariam Thamer(ph).

NPR: Being Rich, and Careful, in Liberated Iraq