Examine the table shown below. It shows GDP and the unemployment rate in the United States from 2005 to 2009. As you have read, GDP and the unemployment rate are two of the economic indicators economists use to measure the health of the economy. What does this data show about the economy during this period? Why do you think this is the case?
Unemployment Rate
Year Real GDP (in December)
(in trillions)
2005 $14.91 4.9
2006 $15.33 4.4
2007 $15.62 5.0
2008 $15.60 7.3
2009 $15.20 9.9