Alvin Hansen

Alvin Hansen was an influential American economist known as the "American Keynesian." He helped popularize John Maynard Keynes’s ideas in the U.S., emphasizing the role of government spending to boost economic growth and reduce unemployment. Hansen believed that during times of economic downturn, increased government investment could help maintain full employment and prevent long-term stagnation. His work shaped economic policies during the mid-20th century, especially the use of fiscal policy to manage the economy. Overall, Hansen’s contributions advanced understanding of how government actions can stabilize and stimulate economic activity during periods of economic weakness.