[r2_pilot]

The profits were initially distributed before you were born. Every year more profits are added to the value of society (I assume you are a part of society; if not, I do apologize) because potholes are filled, food is verified safe to eat, electricity is regulated, and generally people leave you and your stuff alone so you can do whatever you want within the bounds of the social contract.

[dcx]

FYI OP is answering my question on what the historian's theory was! (They were downvoted)

This route makes sense to me; I do think the deal has been getting worse and worse lately, and periodic renegotiation is required to keep things running properly.