Recession, depression, stagflation, deflation — no matter what you call it, it’s not a new thing. Throughout history, economic downturns have forced people to economize, often in what, to modern sensibilities, are mighty peculiar ways. This book looks back at a hundred years of belt-tightening tips from books, magazines, government agencies, and assorted do-gooders. Some of the hints and advice are mystifying, but all are part of social history, and many are as useful today as they were in granny’s day.

Recession, depression, stagflation, deflation — no matter what you call it, it’s not a new thing. Throughout history, economic downturns have forced people to economize, often in what, to modern sensibilities, are mighty peculiar ways. This book looks back at a hundred years of belt-tightening tips from books, magazines, government agencies, and assorted do-gooders. Some of the hints and advice are mystifying, but all are part of social history, and many are as useful today as they were in granny’s day.