Gold has long been a symbol of wealth and stability, but its role in shaping the modern global economy is far more complex. This unit study takes students on a deep dive into the post-World War II economic order, exploring how gold influenced policy decisions, financial markets, and even covert operations.
Students will examine the Bretton Woods Agreement, which established gold-backed global currencies, and the pivotal decision in 1971 to close the gold window, effectively ending the U.S. dollar’s gold convertibility. The course will explore the dramatic shift to petrodollars, changing the foundation of global trade and foreign relations.
Beyond official policies, students will uncover the lesser-known history of the Black Eagle Trust, a mysterious fund tied to secretive gold reserves and bearer certificates, and its implications for global power structures. They will analyze how the role of gold has shaped inflation, speculative bubbles, income inequality, and government spending, helping them understand the long-term economic effects of these decisions.
By the end of this unit, students will have a well-rounded understanding of gold’s role in shaping both overt and covert foreign policies, the rise of fiat currency, and how gold continues to impact financial systems today. Through critical analysis of historical events and economic policies, students will gain valuable insights into the intersection of money, power, and global politics.
What You’ll Learn
Through engaging readings, podcasts, and interactive activities, you’ll explore:
Unit Study Table of Contents:
- The Bretton Woods Agreement: Foundation of Post-War Global Economics
- The Plan for Stolen Nazi Gold
- Using the Black Eagle Trust to Overthrow Governments
- Nixon Shocks the World, Ends Bretton Woods
- Bubbles and Fraud in the Post Bretton Woods Era
- The Rise of the Petrodollar
- Ferdinand Marcos Sells Axis Gold to the CIA
- Financing The Collapse of the Soviet Union
- The Role of Gold in the Monetary System Today
What’s Included
Designed for teens, this unit study provides:
- 9 readings
- Built in podcast of all readings!
- A quiz to solidify your understanding
- Discussion activities to encourage critical thinking and dialogue
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