To analyze this question, we need to interpret the given rates of decline in industrial production for different countries during the Great Depression. Based on the figures provided in the chart:
[tex]\[
\begin{array}{|c|c|}
\hline
\text{Country} & \text{Rate of Decline} \\
\hline
\text{United States} & 46.8\% \\
\hline
\text{Great Britain} & 16.2\% \\
\hline
\text{Germany} & 41.8\% \\
\hline
\text{France} & 31.3\% \\
\hline
\text{Sweden} & 10.3\% \\
\hline
\end{array}
\][/tex]
We need to conclude what can most likely be inferred about Sweden based on these figures. Let's consider the options one by one:
1. Sweden did not depend on industrial production:
- Sweden has the lowest rate of decline in industrial production among the countries listed, suggesting that its economy was not as severely affected by the downturn in industrial production. This low impact could imply that Sweden's economy was less reliant on industrial production compared to the other countries.
2. Sweden's economy was less stable than most:
- A less stable economy would usually show more significant fluctuations and impacts during economic downturns. However, Sweden's rate of decline is the lowest, indicating more stability in its industrial sector during the Great Depression.
3. Sweden and Great Britain had similar economies:
- While both Sweden (10.3\%) and Great Britain (16.2\%) had lower declines compared to the other countries, their rates of decline are not close enough to suggest that their economies were very similar in terms of industrial dependence.
4. Sweden had a lower unemployment rate than the United States:
- A lower rate of industrial decline does not directly imply a lower unemployment rate. Although Sweden's industrial sector was less affected, this information alone is insufficient to conclude anything specific about unemployment rates.
By analyzing the data and the implications of each statement, the most reasonable conclusion based on the provided figures is:
Sweden did not depend on industrial production.
This conclusion is supported by the fact that Sweden experienced the smallest decline in industrial production, indicating that its economy was likely less reliant on industrial activities.
