Did protectionist tariffs initiate the Great Depression? Will free trade across international borders benefit all countries involved, or create winners and losers? Is there any middle ground in the globalization debate? This program surveys the history and politics of cross-border trade, identifying ways that nations have tried to strengthen, reduce, or prevent it. Outlining the concept known as pattern of trade, the video examines cases for and against free trade while studying comparative advantage, wage inequality, economies of scale, and the infant industry argument. The evolution of international trade policy is also examined, featuring prominent examples of pro- and anti-protectionist measures: the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act, GATT, NAFTA, the emergence of the World Trade Organization, and more. The success of East Asian economies following World War II highlights the principle of export-oriented industrialization.

Encoded with permission for digital streaming by Infobase on Oct. 25, 2006. Learn360 is distributed by Infobase for Films for the Humanities & Sciences, Cambridge Educational, Meridian Education, and Shopware.

Trade Patterns (4:34) -- Arguments for Free Trade (7:31) -- Arguments Against Free Trade (8:17) -- Evolution of International Trade Policy (5:21) -- Evolution of International Trade Policy: Free Trade (4:33).