Does anyone know the last time we didn't have a trade deficit?
U.S. MERCHANDISE IMPORTS, EXPORTS, AND TRADE DEFICITS: 1940-2003
It looks like it was 1975.
The value of the dollar has declined signficantly since then.
Trade deficits do not mean economic woe, they mean Americans have lots of money to spend, and can afford imported goods.
Where did this concept that Americans must ship out more than they ship in come from?
I'd have to look, but for the past 50 years I think that we have never not had a trade deficit.
I'd have to look, but for the past 50 years I think that we have never not had a trade deficit.
I'd have to look, but for the past 50 years I think that we have never not had a trade deficit.
Uh, during most of our history, Willie?
Say, during and after WWII? All of the fifties and sixties?
I'll go find a map for you.