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WASHINGTON (AP) — Donald Trump loved to use tariffs on foreign goods during his first presidency. But their impact was barely noticeable in the overall economy, even if their aftershocks were clear in specific industries. The data show they never fully delivered on his promised factory jobs. Nor did they provoke the avalanche of inflation that critics feared. This time, though, his tariff threats might be different . The president-elect is talking about going much bigger — on a potential scale that creates more uncertainty about whether he'll do what he says and what the consequences could be. “There's going to be a lot more tariffs, I mean, he's pretty clear,” said Michael Stumo, the CEO of Coalition for a Prosperous America, a group that has supported import taxes to help domestic manufacturing. The president-elect posted on social media Monday that on his first day in office he would impose 25% tariffs on all goods imported from Mexico and Canada until those countries satisfactorily stop illegal immigration and the flow of illegal drugs such as fentanyl into the United States. Those tariffs could essentially blow up the North American trade pact that Trump’s team negotiated during his initial term. Chinese imports would face additional tariffs of 10% until Beijing cracks down on the production of materials used in making fentanyl, Trump posted. Business groups were quick to warn about rapidly escalating inflation , while Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said she would counter the move with tariffs on U.S. products. House Democrats put together legislation to strip a president’s ability to unilaterally apply tariffs this drastic, warning that they would likely lead to higher prices for autos, shoes, housing and groceries. Sheinbaum said Wednesday that her administration is already working up a list of possible retaliatory tariffs “if the situation comes to that.” “The economy department is preparing it,” Sheinbaum said. “If there are tariffs, Mexico would increase tariffs, it is a technical task about what would also benefit Mexico,” she said, suggesting her country would impose targeted import duties on U.S. goods in sensitive areas. Similarly, the Canadian government has also started to explore retaliatory tariffs if Trump tackes action. House Democrats on Tuesday introduced a bill that would require congressional approval for a president to impose tariffs due to claims of a national emergency, a largely symbolic action given Republicans' coming control of both the House and Senate. "This legislation would enable Congress to limit this sweeping emergency authority and put in place the necessary Congressional oversight before any president – Democrat or Republican – could indiscriminately raise costs on the American people through tariffs,” said Rep. Suzan DelBene, D-Wash. But for Trump, tariffs are now a tested tool that seems less politically controversial even if the mandate he received in November's election largely involved restraining inflation. The tariffs he imposed on China in his first term were continued by President Joe Biden, a Democrat who even expanded tariffs and restrictions on the world's second largest economy. Biden administration officials looked at removing Trump's tariffs in order to bring down inflationary pressures, only to find they were unlikely to help significantly. Tariffs were “so new and unique that it freaked everybody out in 2017,” said Stumo, but they are now seen as part of the policy toolkit by the United States and other countries. Trump imposed tariffs on solar panels and washing machines at the start of 2018, moves that might have pushed up prices in those sectors even though they also overlapped with plans to open washing machine plants in Tennessee and South Carolina. His administration also levied tariffs on steel and aluminum, including against allies. He then increased tariffs on China, leading to a trade conflict and a limited 2020 agreement that failed to produce the promised Chinese purchases of U.S. goods. Still, the dispute changed relations with China as more U.S. companies looked for alternative suppliers in other countries. Economic research also found the United States may have sacrificed some of its “soft power” as the Chinese population began to watch fewer American movies. The Federal Reserve kept inflation roughly on target, but factory construction spending never jumped in a way that suggested a lasting gain in manufacturing jobs. Separate economic research found the tariff war with China did nothing economically for the communities hurt by offshoring, but it did help Trump and Republicans in those communities politically. When Trump first became president in 2017, the federal government collected $34.6 billion in customs, duties and fees. That sum more than doubled under Trump to $70.8 billion in 2019, according to Office of Management and Budget records. While that sum might seem meaningful, it was relatively small compared to the overall economy. America's gross domestic product is now $29.3 trillion, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. The total tariffs collected in the United States would equal less than 0.3% of GDP. The new tariffs being floated by Trump now are dramatically larger and there could be far more significant impacts. If Mexico, Canada, and China faced the additional tariffs proposed by Trump on all goods imported to the United States, that could be roughly equal to $266 billion in tax collections, a number that does not assume any disruptions in trade or retaliatory moves by other countries. The cost of those taxes would likely be borne by U.S. families, importers and domestic and foreign companies in the form of higher prices or lower profits. Former Biden administration officials said they worried that companies could piggyback on Trump's tariffs — if they're imposed — as a rationale to raise their prices. This would mirror price increases by many companies in 2022 that were made possible because of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which pushed up food and energy prices and gave the companies cover to further raise their own prices. “I’m very worried about the total indiscriminate tariffs on more than China — that it gives cover to firms to jack up prices,” said Jen Harris, a former Biden White House official who is now director of the Economy and Society Initiative at the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation. But what Trump didn't really spell out is what might cause him to back down on tariffs and declare a victory. What he is creating instead with his tariff threats is a sense of uncertainty as companies and countries await the details to figure out what all of this could mean. “We know the key economic policy priorities of the incoming Trump administration, but we don’t know how or when they will be addressed,” said Greg Daco, chief U.S. economist at EY-Parthenon. 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North Dakota State erases 14-point deficit, beats Abilene Christian 51-31 in FCS second roundThe ZX Spectrum, a seemingly simple 8-bit personal home computer released in 1982 by Sinclair Research, transcended its humble origins to become a cultural phenomenon that defined a generation. Born in the UK during a time of economic recession, this unassuming little box with its rubber keys and distinctive rainbow stripe became synonymous with the 1980s, igniting a passion for technology and gaming in millions. But how did a computer with just 48KB of RAM achieve such iconic status? This article delves deep into the history of the ZX Spectrum, exploring its profound impact on British culture, the innovative games that defined its legacy, and the reasons why it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many. We’ll uncover the factors that contributed to its unprecedented success, from its disruptive price point to the vibrant community it fostered, and examine how it laid the foundation for the UK’s thriving IT industry. A Nation’s Gateway to Computing In the early 1980s, home computers were a luxury reserved for the affluent. Machines like the Apple II and Commodore PET were prohibitively expensive, placing them out of reach for most families. Sir Clive Sinclair, the visionary founder of Sinclair Research, had a different idea: to make computing accessible to everyone. His previous computer, the ZX81, had made strides in that direction, but it was the ZX Spectrum that truly democratized technology. Launched in April 1982, the ZX Spectrum was available in two models: 16KB and 48KB, priced at £125 and £175 respectively (approximately £450 and £630 today). This affordability was revolutionary, bringing computing within reach of ordinary households. Suddenly, children across the socioeconomic spectrum could experience the magic of programming and gaming in their own homes. This accessibility ignited a nationwide fascination with technology, transforming the Spectrum into a cultural symbol of progress and innovation. The Spectrum’s Colorful World One of the most striking features of the ZX Spectrum was its surprisingly vibrant color palette. While other computers of the era offered limited and often dull color options, the Spectrum boasted a dazzling array of hues, albeit with some limitations due to attribute clash. This colorful display, combined with the machine’s ability to produce surprisingly sophisticated graphics for its time, made it irresistible to game developers and captivated a generation of gamers. Games like Manic Miner, Jet Set Willy, and Chuckie Egg became instant classics, showcasing the creativity and ingenuity of a burgeoning game development scene. These games weren’t just visually appealing; they were also incredibly addictive and challenging, pushing the boundaries of what was possible on an 8-bit machine and setting new standards for game design. The Spectrum’s vibrant visuals and engaging gameplay experiences cemented its position as the leading gaming platform of its time. A Bedroom Coding Revolution The ZX Spectrum wasn’t just a gaming machine; it was also a powerful tool for learning and creativity. The BASIC programming language, built into the Spectrum’s ROM, provided an intuitive and readily available platform for users to write their own programs and games. This accessibility sparked a coding revolution, with countless young people across the UK learning to program on the Spectrum. Bedrooms were transformed into makeshift development studios, as teenagers spent countless hours hunched over their Spectrums, creating games, utilities, and even rudimentary artificial intelligence programs. This generation of “bedroom coders” went on to form the backbone of the UK’s burgeoning IT industry, contributing to the development of groundbreaking software and technologies that continue to shape our world today. The Spectrum’s impact on the technology landscape is immeasurable, having empowered a generation to become creators and innovators in the digital realm. The Rise of the Spectrum Community The ZX Spectrum fostered a vibrant and passionate community that extended far beyond individual bedrooms. Magazines like Your Sinclair and Crash provided news, reviews, and tips, fueling the enthusiasm and providing a vital source of information for eager users. Local computer clubs offered a space for enthusiasts to connect, share their creations, and learn from one another. This sense of community was crucial to the Spectrum’s success, creating a network of support and collaboration that fueled innovation and creativity. The Spectrum also spawned a thriving independent software scene. Small companies, often started by bedroom coders, sprung up across the UK, producing a vast library of games and software. This entrepreneurial spirit further cemented the Spectrum’s place in British culture, demonstrating the power of technology to empower individuals and drive economic growth. The Spectrum became a symbol of possibility, inspiring a generation to pursue their dreams and contribute to the burgeoning tech industry. The Spectrum’s Global Reach While the ZX Spectrum was undeniably a British phenomenon, its influence extended far beyond the UK’s shores. The Spectrum was also popular in other European countries, such as Spain, where it enjoyed considerable success and fostered a thriving software development scene. This international reach further solidified the Spectrum’s legacy as a truly iconic machine that captured the imaginations of people across the globe. The Spectrum’s impact on gaming and technology was felt worldwide, inspiring countless individuals to explore the world of computing and contribute to the digital revolution. Its legacy continues to inspire and influence, serving as a testament to the power of accessible technology to connect people and foster creativity. Enduring Legacy: Why the Spectrum Still Matters The ZX Spectrum’s reign as king of the home computers eventually came to an end, overtaken by more powerful machines like the Commodore Amiga and Atari ST. However, its impact on the world of technology and gaming is undeniable and continues to resonate today. The Spectrum introduced millions to the world of computing, inspiring a generation of programmers, game developers, and entrepreneurs. Its influence can be seen in the UK’s thriving games industry, which continues to produce world-class titles that entertain and captivate audiences worldwide. The Spectrum’s legacy is woven into the fabric of the gaming industry, shaping its evolution and inspiring countless developers to push the boundaries of interactive entertainment. Even today, the ZX Spectrum retains a dedicated and passionate following. Emulators and retro gaming communities keep the spirit of the Spectrum alive, allowing new generations to experience the magic of this iconic machine. The Spectrum’s legacy serves as a reminder of a time when technology was simpler, yet full of possibilities, and when a small, unassuming computer could spark a cultural revolution. Intriguing Facts: My Personal Experience: My first encounter with the ZX Spectrum was at a friend’s house in the mid-80s. I was mesmerized by the colorful graphics and fast-paced action of games like Jet Set Willy and Head Over Heels. Soon after, I convinced my parents to buy me my own Spectrum, and I spent countless hours exploring its capabilities, learning to program, and immersing myself in its world. The Spectrum wasn’t just a computer to me; it was a portal to another dimension, a source of endless fascination and creativity. Even today, I still fire up my emulator occasionally to relive those nostalgic memories and appreciate the ingenuity of this groundbreaking machine. The ZX Spectrum was more than just a computer; it was a cultural touchstone that defined a generation. Its affordability, vibrant color palette, and accessible programming language opened up the world of technology to millions, fostering a community of passionate enthusiasts and laying the foundation for the UK’s thriving IT industry. While technology has advanced significantly since the 1980s, the ZX Spectrum remains an enduring symbol of innovation, creativity, and the democratizing power of technology. It truly was “our rock ‘n’ roll,” and its impact on the world of technology and gaming continues to be felt today.
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