I think you would have to look at the reasons why the government tax revenue did not increase when rates were higher. The rich are have mobility. They can move money around the world and at high tax rate levels, they'd be content on neither earning nor bringing back any of the money they make elsewhere. Let's take an example of Apple's $200 B sitting offshore. I know that's a corporate tax, but same principal.
I don't believe the tax burden on the lower classes in the US has ever been lessened by increased rates at the top levels.
I don't believe the tax burden on the lower classes in the US has ever been lessened by increased rates at the top levels.