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Lessons from Spanish Flu — Babies Born in 1919 Had Worse Educational, Life Outcomes Than Those Born Just Before or After. Could That Happen With COVID-19?

BY debraabritt
The 74 news logo

Chad Aldeman
Published February 2, 2021 on The 74

In this commentary, Chad Aldeman shares an analysis of the life trajectories of babies born in the wake of the 1918 flu outbreak. Those children were less likely to finish high school, earned less money and were more likely to depend on welfare assistance. The harmful effects were twice as large for nonwhite children.

Are there lessons for current economic recovery efforts?

READ THE COMMENTARY

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