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The Stability of the Gold Standard and the Evolution of the International Monetary System

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  • Bayoumi, Tamim
  • Eichengreen, Barry

Abstract

This paper examines some popular explanations for the smooth operation of the pre-1914 gold standard. We find that the rapid adjustment of economies to underlying disturbances played an important role in stabilizing output and employment under the gold standard system, but no evidence that this success also reflected relatively small underlying disturbances. Finally, the paper also suggests an explanation for the evolution of the international monetary system based on growing nominal inertia over time.

Suggested Citation

  • Bayoumi, Tamim & Eichengreen, Barry, 1995. "The Stability of the Gold Standard and the Evolution of the International Monetary System," CEPR Discussion Papers 1248, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:1248
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Gold Standard; International Monetary System;

    JEL classification:

    • F33 - International Economics - - International Finance - - - International Monetary Arrangements and Institutions
    • N10 - Economic History - - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics; Industrial Structure; Growth; Fluctuations - - - General, International, or Comparative

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