The USA has a population of 308.5 million people and a GDP of $14.6 trillion, ranking 4th on the human development index. A housing market crisis caused people to lose mortgages and jobs, putting banks and companies in trouble. While unemployment rose, consumer spending increased due to higher payrolls, providing hope that economic recovery was underway despite rising gas prices from global events. However, the conclusion warns that while the worst may be over, continued caution is still needed.