Anna Schwartz

Anna Schwartz

Anna Schwartz was born on November 11th, 1915

Full Name: Anna Jacobson Schwartz
Place of Birth: New York City, New York
Profession: Economist and Author
Education: Columbia University
Born: November 11, 1915
Died: June 21, 2012
Occupation: Research Economist
Notable Contributions: Monetary History of the United States

A renowned economist and author who co-wrote "A Monetary History of the United States" with Milton Friedman, a seminal work that reshaped the field of monetary economics.

Written by: Oliver Wren Oliver Wren

Anna Schwartz: A Pioneering Economist and Monetary Scholar

Anna Schwartz is renowned for her groundbreaking work in the field of economics, particularly in the area of monetary history. She is widely recognized as one of the world's greatest monetary scholars, and her collaborative effort with Nobel laureate Milton Friedman, A Monetary History of the United States, 1867-1960, is considered a seminal work in the field.

Early Life and Education

Born on November 11, 1915, in New York City, Anna Jacobson Schwartz was a prodigious student, graduating Phi Beta Kappa from Barnard College at the age of 18. She went on to earn her master's degree in economics from Columbia University in 1935, at just 19 years old. Schwartz began her career as a professional economist a year later, publishing her first paper, "British Share Prices, 1811-1850," in the Review of Economics and Statistics in 1940.

Career Highlights and Major Works

Schwartz's association with the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) spanned over six decades, during which she made significant contributions to the study of business cycles. Her most notable work, A Monetary History of the United States, 1867-1960, co-authored with Friedman, was published in 1963. This influential book placed the blame for the Great Depression squarely on the Federal Reserve System, offering a contrarian perspective that challenged conventional wisdom.

In addition to her work with NBER, Schwartz held various positions, including staff director of the U.S. Gold Commission in 1981. She served as president of the Western Economic Association International in 1988, a testament to her stature in the field.

Influence on Modern Society

Schwartz's work has had a profound impact on the field of economics, shaping the understanding of monetary policy and its role in shaping economic outcomes. Her research has informed policymakers, scholars, and economists, influencing the development of economic theories and practices.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

In 1936, Schwartz married Isaac Schwartz, a financial officer and fellow Columbia University graduate, with whom she raised four children. She earned her Ph.D. from Columbia University in 1964, a remarkable achievement in an era when women were underrepresented in academia.

Awards and Honors

In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the field of economics, Schwartz was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame in 2013, a testament to her groundbreaking achievements as a woman in a male-dominated profession.

Legacy

Anna Schwartz's remarkable career, spanning over six decades, has left an indelible mark on the field of economics. Her work continues to influence contemporary economic thought, and her legacy inspires future generations of economists and scholars. As Robert J. Shiller aptly described, Schwartz's work is "the most influential account of the Great Depression," a testament to her enduring impact on the field.

Timeline
1915
Born in New York City
Anna Schwartz was born on November 11, 1915, in New York City, to a family of Jewish immigrants.
1941
Earned a masters degree in economics
Anna Schwartz earned a masters degree in economics from Columbia University, where she studied under the influential economist, Wesley Clair Mitchell.
1956
Published A Monetary History of the United States
Anna Schwartz co-authored A Monetary History of the United States, a seminal work on US economic history, with Milton Friedman.
1989
Awarded the National Medal of Science
Anna Schwartz was awarded the National Medal of Science, the highest scientific honor in the US, for her contributions to economics.
2012
Died in Manhattan, New York
Anna Schwartz died on June 21, 2012, in Manhattan, New York, at the age of 96, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneering economist and scholar.
Anna Schwartz

Anna Schwartz Quiz

Who is the co-author of "A Monetary History of the United States" with Anna Schwartz?

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FAQ
What was Anna Schwartzs contribution to economics?
Anna Schwartz made significant contributions to the field of economics, particularly in the area of monetary policy and the history of economic thought. She was a pioneer for women in economics and played a key role in shaping the field.
What was Anna Schwartzs relationship with Milton Friedman?
Anna Schwartz collaborated with Milton Friedman on several projects, including their influential book A Monetary History of the United States. The two economists shared a deep respect for each others work and ideas.
What was Anna Schwartzs views on monetary policy?
Anna Schwartz was a strong critic of government intervention in the economy and advocated for a limited role for monetary policy. She believed that the Federal Reserve should focus on maintaining price stability and avoid attempting to control the business cycle.
What awards did Anna Schwartz receive for her work?
Anna Schwartz received several awards for her contributions to economics, including the National Medal of Science and the American Economic Associations Distinguished Fellow award.
How did Anna Schwartzs career impact the field of economics?
Anna Schwartzs career had a profound impact on the field of economics, as she helped to shape the development of monetary economics and inspired future generations of economists. Her work continues to influence economic policy and research today.

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