What was a significant economic concern for the U.S. from the 1970s onward?

The significant economic concern for the U.S. from the 1970s onward was indeed globalization and its effects. This period saw the rise of a more interconnected global economy, which brought about various changes that had profound implications for domestic industries, labor markets, and international trade.

Globalization led to increased competition from foreign markets, which impacted manufacturing jobs in the U.S., especially in traditional industries. As companies sought to reduce costs, many began outsourcing production to countries with cheaper labor, resulting in job losses and economic shifts within the U.S. economy. Additionally, globalization has affected trade policies and foreign relations, leading to debates over trade agreements and tariffs as individuals and industries grappled with the benefits and challenges of an interconnected global economy.

While increasing agricultural production, military expenditures, and the reduction of trade tariffs were important in their own right, they did not encapsulate the overarching structural changes and challenges posed by globalization, especially how it altered the employment landscape and economic strategies within the United States during this time period.