Economic Episodes in American History 1st Edition, Paperback

This unique textbook supplement utilizes an economic perspective to more fully understand U.S. History, and does so without requiring any prior background in economics. As such, it can be used by anyone (from high school students to adults) interested in a non-quantitative way to learn about the principles of economics and the role economics has played (and continues to play) in shaping the American story. It is organized around the key events and issues of American history, from the early colonists through the civil war and the cold war. It includes clear explanations of traditional economic history topics, such as William Jennings Bryan's famous "Cross of Gold" speech, the role of the nineteenth century robber barons (or captains of industry), the founding of the Federal Reserve, the causes of the Great Depression, the collapse of communism, the growth of the Federal government and the debate over free trade, as well as many important historical events not usually associated primarily with economics. These include Jackie Robinson and the desegregation of major league baseball, the role of women in the workplace (Rosie the Riveter) during World War II and since, the debate about immigration, the hunting of the American buffalo almost to extinction, how American Indians viewed private property and many other fascinating topics.