Teach the Children to Spend: Financial Literacy Education in the USA 1960-2010

Teaching children about money and finances can be a way to equip young people with tools for adult life and decision making. Financial literacy initiatives can also be a way for interested business parties to shape the consumers and financial actors of tomorrow to their liking. During the period 1960 to 2010 the emphasis of children’s financial education in the USA and UK shifted from the former to the latter, reflecting changes in the political and economic environments.  

In his latest research, Dr. Matthew Hollow, associate professor at the University of York, explores the changing face of financial literacy education during the twentieth century. Using the historical collections held in the Hagley Library, including the Institute for Financial Literacy collection, Hollow charts the evolving techniques and content of children’s financial literacy education materials. His findings include trading cards, roleplaying games, music videos, and more.

In support of his work, Dr. Hollow received funding from the Center for the History of Business, Technology, and Society at the Hagley Museum and Library. For more information and more Hagley History Hangouts, visit us online at hagley.org.

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