Let's analyze the given chart of the rate of decline in industrial production during the Great Depression for different countries. The figures are as follows:
- United States: 46.8%
- Great Britain: 16.2%
- Germany: 41.8%
- France: 31.3%
- Sweden: 10.3%
To determine the most likely conclusion about Sweden based on these figures, we must consider the information provided:
1. United States: 46.8% decline
2. Great Britain: 16.2% decline
3. Germany: 41.8% decline
4. France: 31.3% decline
5. Sweden: 10.3% decline
By comparing the rates of decline, it's evident that Sweden experienced the smallest decline in industrial production at 10.3%.
Given the significantly smaller rate of decline in industrial production for Sweden, we can infer several points:
1. Sweden did not depend on industrial production: Industrial production likely did not play a major role in Sweden's economy relative to the other countries listed, given its smaller decline.
2. Sweden's economy was less stable than most: This statement is inaccurate. A smaller decline suggests more stability in Sweden's industrial sector compared to the other countries.
3. Sweden and Great Britain had similar economies: The rate of decline in Great Britain (16.2%) was still significantly higher than that in Sweden (10.3%), suggesting differing economic structures.
4. Sweden had a lower unemployment rate than the United States: While this may be a possibility, the data provided does not include unemployment rates and thus does not support a direct conclusion regarding unemployment.
Therefore, the most reasonable and supported conclusion we can make based solely on the given figures is:
Sweden did not depend on industrial production.
