Bretton Woods and EU Formation
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Questions and Answers

What was a key component of expansionary fiscal policy under Reagan?

  • Tax cuts for the upper and middle class (correct)
  • Increased social spending
  • Control of inflation
  • Increased regulations

Deregulation during the 1980s only affected the service sectors in the United States.

False (B)

Name one sign of economic confidence as a result of Reagan's policies.

Appreciation of the dollar

During the Thatcher years, the process of privatization began in _____ .

<p>Great Britain</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a consequence of deregulation in the late 1990s?

<p>Extraordinary growth in the size of private enterprises (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 marked the beginning of a privatization process in Eastern Europe.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following countries with their significant economic policy or trend:

<p>Great Britain = Privatization under Thatcher United States = Deregulation in the 1980s Italy = Second in privatization ranking Soviet Union = Transition to market economy</p> Signup and view all the answers

The new economic paradigm during the Reagan era emphasized less _____, less public spending, and less regulation.

<p>taxes</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant event that marked the end of the Bretton Woods system?

<p>The oil crisis of the 1970s (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Bretton Woods system guaranteed high unemployment rates during its operation.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What economic ideology rose during the 1970s contributing to the end of the Bretton Woods system?

<p>neo-liberalism</p> Signup and view all the answers

The dominant economic policy associated with President Reagan is known as _______.

<p>Reaganomics</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following economic concepts with their descriptions:

<p>Supply-side economics = Focuses on boosting economic growth by increasing supply Deregulation = Lifting government restrictions on business Privatization trends in Europe = Shifting public services to private ownership Fiscal policy = Government spending and taxation to influence the economy</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the impacts of the Bretton Woods system on the U.S. dollar?

<p>It became a reserve and international currency (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The economic recovery of Europe and Japan in the 1950s led to a decrease in investment from the United States.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the main consequences of the 1973 oil crisis?

<p>Tripling of oil prices (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During the Bretton Woods system, which country was a pivotal force in the global economic framework?

<p>the USA</p> Signup and view all the answers

The combination of unemployment and inflation during the 1970s was referred to as stagflation.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What economic policies were initially adopted by governments in response to the oil crisis in the developed economies?

<p>Keynesian policies</p> Signup and view all the answers

The first oil crisis occurred in the year _____ as a reaction to the Yom Kippur War.

<p>1973</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the economic concept with its description:

<p>Supply-side Economics = Focuses on boosting economic growth through tax cuts and deregulation Reaganomics = Economic policies associated with President Reagan to reduce government intervention Deregulation = Reduction or elimination of government rules controlling economic activity Privatization Trends in Europe = Transfer of ownership from the public to the private sector</p> Signup and view all the answers

What major economic change began to reshape the role of government in the late 1970s?

<p>Neo-liberalism (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the developed economies during the 1970s, all government responses to the oil crisis were immediately successful.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Iranian Revolution and the subsequent _____ resulted in a significant drop in oil production in 1979.

<p>Iran-Iraq War</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a primary strategy employed by the East Asian Tigers to overcome their initial economic disadvantages?

<p>Emphasizing export-led growth (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the concept of catch-up growth as it relates to the East Asian Tigers?

<p>Growth that occurs faster due to a country's late industrialization (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why did the East Asian Tigers have a tremendous potential for catch-up growth after World War II?

<p>They started economically far from the developed countries. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which institution played a significant role in facilitating the economic growth of the Asian Tigers?

<p>Strong governmental support for export-oriented industries (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the state intervention models seen in East Asian economies?

<p>Liberalization of domestic markets without restrictions (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What factor limited foreign investments in the Asian Tigers at the beginning of their economic development?

<p>Poor economic conditions in their markets (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role did technological advancements in developed countries play in the economic growth of the East Asian Tigers?

<p>They provided models for the Tigers to emulate. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the East Asian Tigers' economic strategy was considered unsustainable in the long term?

<p>Retention of low-cost labor force indefinitely (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant aspect of the export-led growth policies adopted by East Asian economies?

<p>Investing in specific competitive sectors (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor contributed to the catch-up growth of East Asian economies?

<p>Backlog of modern technologies to import (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the state play a role in the economic growth of the East Asian Tigers?

<p>By providing fiscal incentives and support for international market competitiveness (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role did institutions have in the success of East Asian economies?

<p>They constrained executive power and promoted accountability (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a characteristic of the economic geography of East Asia?

<p>Clusters of densely populated manufacturing and consumption hubs (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What approach did South Korea take towards economic growth compared to its East Asian counterparts?

<p>Relying on large industrial conglomerates (chaebols) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the East Asian economies address their relatively small size in terms of market access?

<p>By depending heavily on international markets (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a defining feature of the developmental state in East Asian economies?

<p>Active intervention to support specific sectors (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What lesson did East Asian economies learn from the failures of the Soviet Union?

<p>The importance of market discipline and limits on executive power (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements regarding China’s economic growth is accurate?

<p>Rapid growth in China began after significant reforms in the late 1970s. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a major consequence of the Great Leap Forward in China?

<p>Widespread famine and economic disruption (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the major tools used during the Great Leap Forward to increase steel production?

<p>Creation of backyard furnaces using peasant labor (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which economic model was primarily employed in China from 1953 to 1957?

<p>Collectivization and central planning (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the Chinese economy transform between 1990 and 2016 in terms of extreme poverty?

<p>Dramatic reduction in those earning less than $5.50 per day (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role did the USSR play in China's first five-year plan (1953-57)?

<p>Provision of technical and economic support (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a notable characteristic of China's economic transformation post-1990?

<p>Significant reduction in extreme poverty rates (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which primary objective characterized the economic policies during the Great Leap Forward?

<p>Substantial emphasis on rapid industrial growth (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant economic change did China experience between 1962 and 2019?

<p>Increase in per capita GDP from $71 to $10,262 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Expansionary Fiscal Policy

Economic policy that aims to boost economic activity by increasing government spending or cutting taxes.

Reaganomics

A set of economic policies in the 1980s, including tax cuts, reduced spending and deregulation.

Deregulation

Reduction of government control over industries.

Appreciation of the dollar

An increase in the value of the US dollar in relation to other currencies.

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Trade Balance

The difference between a country's exports and imports.

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Privatization

Transfer of ownership of state-owned companies to private investors.

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Centralized Planned Economy

An economic system where the government controls production, distribution, and pricing levels.

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Market Economy

An economic system relying on supply and demand to drive production and allocation of resources.

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1970s energy crisis

Two oil crises in the 1970s, influenced by geopolitical events, dramatically increased oil prices and negatively impacted economies.

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1973 oil crisis

Arab OPEC countries' embargo on oil sales to the US & allies, causing a threefold increase in oil prices.

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1979 oil crisis

Iranian revolution and Iran-Iraq war causing a drop in oil production and a sharp increase in oil prices.

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Stagflation

A combination of high inflation, high unemployment, and economic stagnation.

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Keynesian response

Governments' initial reaction to the crisis, using expansionary monetary and fiscal policies to stimulate the economy.

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Fiscal stimulus

Increased public spending, employment, and welfare programs to boost the economy.

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Neo-liberal reaction

Later response to the crisis; a shift away from government intervention toward free market principles and reduced government involvement in the economy.

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Inflationary Spiral

A cycle where higher prices lead to even higher prices, triggering further negative consequences.

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Bretton Woods System

A post-WWII monetary system that aimed to promote economic growth, low unemployment, monetary and price stability, and international trade, led by the US.

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US Economic Outperformance

The expectation that the USA's economy would consistently outperform other nations in the Bretton Woods system.

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Trade Balance Surplus

A situation where a country exports more than it imports, leading to a positive balance.

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European/Japanese Economic Recovery

Europe and Japan's faster-than-expected economic growth after WWII relative to the US.

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Dollar Outflow

The movement of US dollars from the US to other countries (Europe) due to investment.

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Balance of Payments

A record of all economic transactions between a country and the rest of the world.

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International Currency

A currency used in transactions and trade internationally.

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Unlimited Liquidity

The availability of funds for use in the global economy, aid, trade, etc.

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Catch-up Growth

A process where developing economies rapidly improve their economic performance by adopting technologies and practices from advanced economies.

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East Asian Tigers

The rapidly growing economies of South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore, known for their export-oriented strategies in the late 20th century.

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Export-led Growth

A strategy where countries focus on producing goods and services for export to other countries, generating economic growth through foreign demand.

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Developmental State

A government actively involved in promoting economic development through policies, investments, and support for specific industries.

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Role of the State in Catch-up Growth

Government interventions, such as establishing public enterprises, providing loans, and offering incentives, play a crucial role in supporting specific sectors and fostering economic development.

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Similarities and Differences in Growth Strategies

Despite the overall success of the East Asian Tigers, there were differences in their specific approaches, reflecting their unique historical contexts and institutions.

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China's Rapid Growth

The Chinese economy has experienced rapid growth since the late 1970s, driven by its economic reforms and integration into the global economy.

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Precondition for Catch-up Growth

Factors like geographic location, infrastructure, a favorable global economic context, and a skilled workforce can create conditions conducive to rapid economic development.

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Importance of Institutions

Strong institutions, such as those that protect property rights and limit corruption, are essential for sustainable economic growth and attracting foreign investment.

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Human Capital's Role

A skilled workforce and a high level of education, known as human capital, are crucial for adopting new technologies and driving economic growth.

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Asian Tigers

Four East Asian economies (Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan) that achieved rapid economic growth in the late 20th century.

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Why did the Asian Tigers succeed?

They embraced export-oriented growth, focused on manufacturing and technology, and invested heavily in education and infrastructure.

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Disadvantages of Latecomers

Developing countries often lack access to capital, technology, and skilled labor, making it harder to catch up.

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What did the Asian Tigers lack?

They had limited domestic markets, low wages, and faced challenges attracting foreign investment, forcing them to focus on exports.

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China's Rise

China's rapid economic growth since the 1980s, driven by market reforms, exports, and investment in manufacturing.

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China's Growth Strategy

China focused on manufacturing, exports, and attracting foreign investment, making it a major economic player.

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Key Differences between China and Asian Tigers

China's sheer size and vast domestic market have allowed for different growth strategies compared to the smaller Asian Tiger economies.

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Chinese Miracle

The remarkable transformation of China's economy, lifting nearly a billion people out of extreme poverty in a short period.

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Great Leap Forward

A disastrous economic and social program in China (1958-1962) aimed at rapid industrialization through collectivization of agriculture and forced labor, leading to widespread famine and economic setback.

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Collectivization of Agriculture

The process of merging individual farms into large collective farms owned and operated by the state, aiming to increase agricultural output.

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People's Communes

Enormous collective farms created during the Great Leap Forward in China, designed to integrate agriculture, industry, and social life.

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Backyard Furnaces

Small, makeshift furnaces used in China during the Great Leap Forward to produce steel, often inefficient and contributing to environmental damage.

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Forced Labor

Compulsory work without pay used extensively during the Great Leap Forward in China, often in harsh conditions.

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Misguided Attempt

The Great Leap Forward is often described as a misguided attempt to rapidly industrialize China, lacking a sound market mechanism and leading to disastrous consequences.

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Central Planning

An economic system where the government controls the production and allocation of resources, often seen in communist systems.

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Study Notes

The End of Bretton Woods, Deregulation, and the Making of the EU

  • Bretton Woods: a stable system, or not?
  • The 1970s' shift: featuring the oil crisis and the rise of neo-liberalism.
  • Reaganomics and deregulation spread.

Bretton Woods System

  • Post-WWII, Bretton Woods ensured:

    • Economic growth ("Glorious Thirties")
    • Low unemployment (avg. 3% in OECD)
    • Monetary stability
    • Price stability
    • Increased international trade
    • Increased international investment
  • Bretton Woods was a political and monetary system, with the USA at its center.

  • At the time of signing, observers believed the US would always economically outperform other countries, and its trade balance would be permanently in surplus.

  • In the 1950s, Europe and Japan recovered economically faster than expected. This caused a dollar outflow from the US to Europe.

  • After WWII, the US dollar became a reserve and international currency, facilitating international aid, trade, investment, and military spending. Keynes challenged this, believing it was unsustainable in the long run.

  • The US was "buying without spending, lending without giving up, giving without losing."

  • The system had problems:

    • Central banks stockpiling dollars increased domestic inflation,
    • Demand for goods outpaced production capacity.
    • The US was in a position to use international capital without cost.

Possible Actions (Not Taken)

  • Decrease Public Spending
  • Increase Taxes to limit demand (only implemented in mid-1968)
  • Increase interest rates.

Meantime in the World

  • The Baby Boomer Generation's exposure to mass media
  • Civil Rights Movement
  • Nuclear Attacks
  • Women's Rights
  • War in Vietnam
  • Social Movements
  • Peace Movements
  • Anti-Capitalism Movements

This is the End, My Golden Friend, the End

  • In August 1971, Nixon had two choices

    • Remain committed to dollar convertibility or
    • Pursue national objectives (limited wage growth, spending cuts)
  • Nixon selected the second option and declared dollar inconvertibility.

  • In 1972, measures were taken:

    • Devaluation of the dollar against gold (-10%)
    • Increased tariff protection (+10%)
    • Price and wage controls

1970s Energy Crisis

  • Two Oil Crises (1973 and 1979):

    • Yom Kippur War and Arab OPEC
    • Iran's revolution and Iran-Iraq war
    • Sharp increase in oil prices (oil tripled in price in months after 1973 )
  • Oil prices led to an inflationary spiral (e.g., 12% in US, 14% in France, 16% in UK, 23% in Japan) in 1974

  • Inflation + stagnation = stagflation

The 1970s: A Pivot of Change

  • Not all inflation was caused by the oil crisis.
  • Developed economies had initially a Keynesian response (expansive monetary policy + fiscal policy).
  • Fiscal stimulus had increased public sector employment and welfare spending.
  • In developing countries, the common response was to import more, leading to increased debt.
  • The triangular circulation of money began in the 1970s involving oil-exporting countries, big international banks, and LDCs who borrowed to buy imports and repay oil debts.

Crisis of International Debt

  • Third World countries debt increased by 4-5 billion annually as the US interest rates increased

The 1970s: A Pivot of Change

  • Keynesian strategies failed to yield satisfactory results, paving the way for neo-liberal thinking.
  • Governments started reducing regulation and spending.

Monetarist vs. Supply-Side Economics

  • Monetarism: managing the money supply to combat inflation.
  • Supply-side economics: reducing taxes and barriers to increase production.

From Carter to Reagan

  • Paul Volcker's restrictive monetary policy combatted US inflation.
  • Interest rates rose from 10% to 20%
  • US economy experienced a recession (nominal + Real).

Reagan and the Reaganomics

  • 1981: The Economic Recovery Act - massive fiscal stimulus.
  • Fiscal policy: tax cuts for upper-middle class, increased spending on military.
  • Deregulation.
  • Effects: Dollar appreciation, reduced unemployment (late 1980s).

The Reaganomics Beyond the US

  • Similar processes took place in other major OECD countries (France, Italy).
  • The collapse of the Soviet Union aided the move to a market economy.
  • Deregulation was focused on industrial and service areas in developed countries.
  • Several European public enterprises were privatized.

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Asian Tigers and China PDF

Description

Explore the complex transition from the Bretton Woods system to the deregulation era and the rise of the European Union. This quiz examines the economic conditions and key events of the 1970s that shaped today's global economy, including the oil crisis and Reaganomics.

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