America’s Dollar: A Century of Declining Purchasing Power

For over a century, the U.S. dollar has held its place as a global powerhouse, powering international trade and serving as a cornerstone for global economies. However, behind this seemingly stable facade lies a stark economic reality: according to data from the St. Louis Federal Reserve, the dollar’s purchasing power has plummeted by a staggering 97% since 1913, when the Federal Reserve was founded. This decline paints a clear picture of a currency in perpetual erosion fueled by inflation and a complex interplay of monetary policies over the years.