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The Secret Life of Money
We use it every day and it is one of the defining resources in our life. Most of us work to earn it, and our jobs occupy most of our waking hours. But what really is money? How is its value determined? How can mere slips of paper or coins, and in today’s high-tech world electronic blips, represent the wealth of a nation? The Secret Life of Money examines the life and history of money, from its humble origins as objects of barter to the sophisticated electronic money of today’s markets. The Secret Life of Money would be useful for classes on American History, World History, Economics, Political Science, Science and Technology, and Geography. It is appropriate for middle school and high school.
Part 2
Vocabulary
Discussion Questions
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In the 18th century, Great Britain separated money and the crown by forming the Bank of London. Why? How did this affect British history?
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The role of the moneychanger, today respected, was reviled in the past and the profession of the outsider? Why?
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Discuss the role of anti-Semitism in the history of money.
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How did the Rothschilds, one of the world’s most successful families, come to power?
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Discuss the role of money in the American Revolution.
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Discuss Benjamin Franklin’s role in establishing paper money as legal tender in the United States.
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How do different cultures display their wealth?
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What is a potlatch?
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The value of art is subjective. How do you define art? How is its worth determined?
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The cyberworld has changed how we use money. How is money different because of electronics and computers?
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Almost all American adults have at least one credit card. What are the origins of the credit card?
Extended Activities
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Design the next generation of American bills.
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Create a poster or chart illustrating the evolution of money from the barter system to today’s electronic form.
Air Dates
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