This document discusses global economic trends from 1980 to 2017 based on GDP and other economic indicators. It notes that from 1980-1990, the United States and Japan led economic expansion, while from 1990-2000 the United States dominated growth. From 2000-2010, emerging economies like the BRICs began to drive growth, with China's economy expanding significantly. The document also examines trends in European GDP, government debt, trade balances, and unemployment during this period. Public debt levels rose sharply in Europe after the 2008 financial crisis.