The Tariff in Our Times

Ida Minerva Tarbell

• Publisher: Science & Technology Publishing
• Year: 2025
• eBook ISBN: 9782528116647
• Topic: Economics
• Subtopic: Economic Conditions
• Index: Economics

The Tariff in Our Times by Ida M. Tarbell is a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the history, development, and impact of tariff policies in the United States, particularly during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Drawing on her skills as a renowned investigative journalist and historian, Tarbell delves into the origins of the American tariff system, tracing its evolution from the early days of the Republic through the Civil War and into the modern industrial era. The book examines the economic, political, and social forces that shaped tariff legislation, highlighting the roles played by influential politicians, business leaders, and advocacy groups. Tarbell provides detailed accounts of key tariff acts, such as the Morrill Tariff, the McKinley Tariff, and the Payne-Aldrich Tariff, analyzing their effects on American industry, agriculture, and consumers. She discusses the arguments for and against protectionism, exploring how tariffs were used to foster domestic manufacturing, protect fledgling industries, and generate government revenue, while also considering the criticisms that tariffs raised prices, stifled competition, and provoked international trade tensions. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, Tarbell brings to life the debates and controversies that surrounded tariff policy, illustrating how it became a central issue in American politics and a battleground for competing economic interests. She also addresses the broader implications of tariff policy for American democracy, economic growth, and international relations. The Tariff in Our Times is not only a historical account but also a critical analysis of the ongoing relevance of tariff debates in shaping the nation's economic destiny. Tarbell's balanced perspective and engaging narrative make this book an essential resource for anyone interested in American history, economics, and public policy.

Table of contents

• THE TARIFF IN OUR TIMES