The U.S. Economy What makes the U.S. economy the biggest economy in the world?

Ranching and farming represent less than 2% of the value of all goods produced in the United States.

The U.S. has rich supplies of natural resources, but mining only makes up 1% of the U.S. economy.

Factories in America make many things. Manufacturing accounts for about 20% of the U.S. economy.

The largest part of the U.S. economy is services. A service industry is a business that provides services to people instead of producing goods. With a partner, make a list of services that you use regularly. Identify a company that supplies each service.

Service Industries Banking Tourism Software Arts & Entertainment Finances Restaurants Publishing Health Care Transportation Retail Businesses Education Scientific Research

US Economic Regions Northeast South Midwest Interior West Pacific

The Northeast Manufacturing, trade, and fishing are the heartbeat of the region. Rocky soil makes agriculture difficult. Important cities include: Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C.

The South Warm, wet climate. Agriculture (mostly rice, sugar cane, tobacco, citrus fruits, peanuts, pecans, and cotton) has traditionally dominated the area. Service industry and manufacturing (airplane parts, textiles, electrical equipment) also important.

The South (part 2) ‏ Florida is a major tourist center. Petroleum products from Texas and Louisiana. Major cities include: Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, Miami, and New Orleans.

The Midwest Fertile soil; nicknamed “America's Breadbasket”. Farmers grow corn, soybeans, oats, and wheat. Cheese and milk are also produced.

The Midwest (part 2) ‏ Because of the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes, many cities here are major ports and manufacturing centers. Abundant supplies of coal and iron.

The Interior West Rocky Mountains and other areas are big tourist destinations. Many people in urban areas work in the service industry. Major cities include: Denver, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, Albuquerque, and Las Vegas.

The Interior West (part 2) ‏ Lack of water and a dry climate make farming in this area difficult—but perfect for ranching. Rich deposits of minerals, making mining a major part of the economy.

The Pacific A large amount of America's food is grown in this region: mild climate and rich soil. Tourism. Software & Electronics.

The Pacific Rich mineral resources, including gold, lead, copper, and oil. Major cities: L.A., San Francisco, Portland, Seattle, and Honolulu.

Challenges for the 21 st Century Pollution Air pollution, caused by the burning of fossil fuels, can lead to acid rain and health risks.

Challenges for the 21 st Century The modern way of life creates a tremendous amount of waste. Many landfills are becoming full.

Challenges for the 21 st Century Technology is rapidly developing. The U.S. is a leader in some areas of high technology, but other countries are quickly catching up. How can the U.S. remain competitive?