The first signs of an economic recession in the United States began in December 2007. In just one year, the unemployment rate has risen by an unimaginable 1.7 percent. In 2008, more than a million Americans lost their jobs. To understand the gravity of these statistics, you need to put yourself in the shoes of those people who are now unable to support their family. Last Christmas, those people had normal vacations with their families. They were able to provide dinner and gifts for their children. It’s daunting to think that this year they might not even have a Christmas tree, let alone presents underneath.

Unemployment is caused by diminished or non-existent demand for goods or services in the economy, which largely defines the American economy today. America used to be a place where dreams were possible if you worked hard to make them come true. Our nation was idolized by countries around the world because it was the land of opportunity. Unfortunately, we are no longer that same nation. Somehow, our nation has become a place where even if you work hard and are good at your job, you risk becoming a statistic.

The United States has a cumulative unemployment rate of 6.7 percent. That translates to 10.3 million people in the United States who are currently unemployed. The state of Michigan is the largest contributor to that number with a staggering 9.6 percent unemployment rate. In a state that relies on the manufacturing business and factories as its main source of income, it’s no wonder why they are the hardest hit. However, the nation’s rate is matched by states like Wyoming, with the lowest unemployment rate at just 3.2 percent. The main source of income in Wyoming is agriculture. Dairy Farming is made up of a large group of self-employed family farmers who work hard for a living. To solve our current economic crisis, we must acknowledge its success and start taking notes.

For the first time ever, the big city is taking notes from a small town farmer on how to make a living. The answer to our economic problems is not necessarily found in the agricultural aspect, as much as in self-employment. Wyoming has managed to keep its unemployment rates below the national average because you can’t get fired if you work for yourself. The idea of ​​a career move into something more personal has never looked so good for America.