How to Pitch an Economy: Global Trade and Commerce in the 18th Century Page URL copied to clipboard!

It’s 1787. The Revolutionary War is over, but victory has left the young United States with debts, shaky trade agreements, and a currency no one trusts. How does this new nation provide for itself?

In this lesson, students will explore the economic challenges and opportunities facing the United States in the years immediately following independence. Through discussion and analysis, they will examine issues such as war debt, trade relationships, currency instability, and the balance between state and national economic power. Building on their understanding, students will then be challenged to create an economic proposal that fosters prosperity, international trade, maintains independence, and establishes the U.S. as a credible force in global trade

Through this activity, students will develop a deeper understanding of the economic challenges faced by the fledgling nation and the foundational decisions that shaped its future.

Materials & Links

• Lesson Plan 
• Pitch Handout 
• Supplemental Reading 
• Teacher’s presentation in Google Slides (This resource is set to “view only.” Please make a copy to modify the resource and use it with your students.)

Standards Alignment 

• D2.ECON.2.9-12: Use marginal benefits and marginal costs to construct an argument for or against an approach or solution to an economic issue.
• D2.HIS.2.9-12: Analyze change and continuity in historical eras.
• V.CE.c.1: The student will apply history and social science skills to explain the foundations of American constitutional democracy by comparing and contrasting debates, compromises, and plans surrounding the drafting and ratification of the Constitution of the United States.
• V.CE.12: The student will apply history and social science skills to describe the United States economy

Recommended Grade Levels 

• 9th-12th