The story of tariffs in the United States goes back even further. It reflects a fascinating and complicated turn in the relationship between trade policy and economic strategy. An explainer titled “Explainer: A history of US tariffs,” released on June 5, 2025, details this intricate history from the administration of President William McKinley to that of President Donald Trump. This amazing resource is a sibling to BBC’s “The Briefing Room” program. It’s been available for over a year.
Tariffs have experienced several cycles of increasing, waning, and re-emerging throughout American history, mirroring the changing economic focus of the country. The explainer traces the history of early tariffs, which were intended to shield nascent industries and produce government revenue. The world was changing, politically and economically, and so over the years these policies adapted and transformed.
The explainer covers significant milestones, including the Tariff Act of 1890 under McKinley, which raised duties on imports to protect domestic producers. It explores a powerful precedent, the Smoot-Hawley Tariff of 1930. This tariff increased tariffs to unprecedented high levels and is frequently cited as exacerbating the onset of the Great Depression.
Recent administrations, even before Trump’s, have significantly increased focus on tariffs. They might be looking to address trade deficits and protect jobs at home. Short explainer explaining how these policies have ignited fierce disputes over their efficacy and long-term effects on US global trade relations.
The BBC’s “Explainer: A history of US tariffs” provides an essential context for understanding how tariffs have shaped the American economy and influenced international relations over time. Additionally, it is a great resource for educational use for anyone looking to learn more about the intersection of trade policy and U.S. economic history.