Trump claims tariffs could have stopped the Great Depression

On April 2, 2025, Donald Trump made controversial remarks in front of the White House, indicating that the introduction of tariffs could have averted the economic calamity known as the Great Depression. He asserted that the U.S. began its economic decline in 1913 with the enactment of the income tax, which he argued shifted the financial burden from foreign nations to American citizens. He maintained that had the country maintained its previous tariff policies, the abrupt economic downturn of 1929 would not have occurred. Trump introduced a series of tariffs, including a 10 percent baseline on all imports and higher rates on approximately 60 countries. His statement suggests a perceived causal relationship between tariffs and economic stability, contrary to the consensus among many economists that tariffs were actually a contributing factor to the economic decline during the Depression. He referenced historical events and policies that influenced trade, highlighting the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930, which is regarded as worsening the economic downturn by strengthening protectionism and leading to a substantial decline in international trade. While Trump argued that tariffs could have led to a different economic narrative, this opinion was met with skepticism from economic experts who recognize the complexities surrounding the Great Depression. His comments spark a broad discussion on trade policies and the historical lessons learned from past economic strategies, especially in light of modern-day concerns surrounding globalization and protectionism. Moreover, Trump's remarks were strategic, aligning them with his ongoing stance on trade as he continues to seek public support for tariffs. As he spoke, he highlighted the difficulties during the Depression and mentioned Franklin Delano Roosevelt's efforts to address the crisis, indicating that the fight against economic downturn was long and arduous. This context positions Trump's tariff proposals not only as economic measures but also as part of a larger political strategy that seeks to resonate with voters concerned about the state of the economy today.