Debates over the role the government should play in our economy go back to the nation's founding. The American Economy: A Historical Encyclopedia provides detailed information on the people, events, and government actions that have shaped our economy from colonial times to the present, paying special attention to the interdependence of economics with political, social, and cultural forces throughout our history. It is the most current and comprehensive portrait of U.S. economic policy available, bringing together the work of over 90 distinguished scholars from a variety of disciplines.

Coverage includes over 500 brief entries on a wide spectrum of topics, plus 31 in-depth essays on such seminal issues as slavery, migration patterns, the welfare state, the rise of the city, and the development of financial institutions. Extensive cross-referencing and a collection of critical primary documents (legislation, speeches, treaties, reports) help make this an ideal go-to resource, whether it's for quick answers, deeper analysis, or direction for further research.