America's First Black Economist

Nina Banks, an associate professor at Bucknell University, discusses her research on African American women's economic history, focusing on Sadie Alexander, the first African American economist in the U.S. Banks highlights Alexander's concerns about unemployment and labor unions, advocating for a federal job guarantee to address economic insecurity. The video also explores the historical labor participation of African American women and the undervaluation of household work. Banks extends the discussion to unpaid work by women of color in communities, emphasizing its significance in challenging racial oppression and environmental issues.

What is the primary focus of Nina Banks' research?

• The economic impact of World War II

• The work of African American women

• The role of technology in modern economics

• The history of American democracy

What was Sadie Alexander's main concern regarding unemployment?

• It would lead to increased taxation

• It would cause inflation

• It would decrease consumer spending

• It was the root of economic insecurity and social problems

What solution did Sadie Alexander propose to address unemployment?

• Privatizing public services

• Reducing taxes

• Increasing tariffs

• A federal full employment program

How did African American women's labor force participation compare to other women after slavery?

• It was lower than other women

• It was about the same as other women

• It was higher than other women

• It was non-existent

What challenge do feminist economists face regarding household work?

• Finding enough data

• Quantifying the value of household work

• Reducing household work

• Eliminating gender roles

What type of work do women of color often engage in within their communities?

• Unpaid community support work

• International trade

• Paid corporate jobs

• Government positions

What broader social benefit is associated with increased job access?

• More government control

• Increased consumer debt

• Improved self-esteem and identity

• Higher taxes