Council for Economic Education
Econ Ed Link: Government Spending: Why Do We Spend the Way We Do?
This lesson plan reviews how the government spends money. It shows how the government's needs have changed over the years. To learn more about this area of economics use this informative website.
Other
Metrocosm: The History of u.s. Government Spending, Revenue, and Debt
The amount of national debt is a hot button issue today. Compare our current national budget to years past to see when our country was in our deepest debt. By analyzing the following charts, students will see the evolution of U.S....
Council for Economic Education
Econ Ed Link: Where Does the Money Come From?
With very few exceptions, the U.S. federal government does not have an "income" to spend providing goods and services. The money used for federal spending programs must be collected as federal taxes, or it must be borrowed. This lesson...
Other
Ss Bulletin: Constitutional Background to the Social Security Act of 1935 [Pdf]
A very interesting discussion of the potential problems that plagued the implementation of the Social Security Act. Read about the cases brought before the Supreme Court which gave Congress the constitutional ability to tax and spend for...
US Senate
Joint Economic Committee
The Joint Economic Committee, composed of memebers from both the United States Senate and the House of Representatives, reviews economic conditions and recommends improvements in economic policy. The content of the website includes...
Annenberg Foundation
Annenberg Learner: Economics Usa: Control the u.s. Debt!
Learn about the different types of expenses that the U.S. budget must pay for and try your hand at balancing the federal budget.
Other
U.s. National Debt Clock: Real Time
Presented to you in real time, discover the most accurate snapshot of our country's spending and debt. Numbers include individual debt per citizen, unemployment rates, Medicare spending, and the trade deficit. Watch and compare as the...
Digital History
Digital History: Reaganomics
This on "Reaganomics," President Reagan's economic policy during his two presidential terms in the 1980s, discusses his laissez-faire approach and tax-cutting, which contributed to the economic recovery of that period.
Other
Nathan Newman: National Budget Simulation
This online simulation should give you a better feel of the trade-offs which policy makers need to make in creating federal budgets and dealing with deficits. The simulation comes in a short and long version and allows learners to see...
Digital History
Digital History: The Clinton Presidency
Short, but comprehensive, synopsis of Clinton's two terms as president. Included in the article is the 1992 campaign, successful and controversial legislation, and the scandals that would eventually become part of his presidential legacy.