I would say it is during our time that Abraham Maslow's idea of human needs was evident— which says that we would always desire more as we achieve one stage. Our forefathers were contented because they worked for the little they desired and enjoyed their lives, especially with families. There was integrity and honesty among each other but today, we can't find those traits in all people; only a few.

With this angle of your post, I will also agree that our forefathers lived happier life than us today because everything today has to do with the rat race to achieve what we want.