President Trump frequently uses superlatives, saying that something is “the best in the history of our country” or “the worst in the history of our country.” It’s never the middle ground. He’ll say the economy is the best in history, unemployment is lowest in history, etc. Most know this is hyperbole, but what are the best and worse periods?

“The greatest economy in the history of our country” Feb. 2026

Economists often point to the post-World War II years (1946-1973) as the strongest economy. This period, called “The Golden Age” was characterized by strong growth, a growing middle class, and high investment. Another strong period was 1993-2000 which had a growing economy, low unemployment, low inflation, and budget surpluses.

“We now have the strongest and most secure border in American history, by far.” Feb. 2026

We had our most secure border last year. There was a 9-month streak of zero immigrant releases into the interior of the U.S. Before 2025, the early 1970s often served as the benchmark for lowest crossing levels.

“More Americans are working today than at any time in the history of our country.” State of the Union Speech

That’s true, aided by population growth. If you examine the unemployment rate, it is currently 4.3 percent. The lowest rate in U.S. history came during WWII, but the non-war low was 3.4 percent in 2023. That marked a 54-year low. While today’s rate is ticking higher, it is still what economists call “full employment.”

“We inherited the highest inflation in the history of our country.” Jan. 2026

Under the Biden administration, inflation peaked at 9.1 percent, representing the biggest jump in 40 years. By the end of his term inflation dropped to 3 percent.

The highest inflation occurred during the revolutionary war, peaking at 30 percent. Shortly after WWI, inflation reached 23 percent and after WWII it peaked at 14 percent 1947. In more modern times, inflation reached 14 percent in 1980 due to an oil crisis and poor fiscal policy.

“[Joe Biden] was the worst president in the history of the U.S.” Jan. 2025

Choosing the worst president is subjective, but many point to the ones just before and after Abraham Lincoln’s term. James Buchanan, a high-functioning alcoholic, is widely criticized for his inaction during the secession crisis and Andrew Johnson poorly handled the post-Civil War reconstruction. Not surprising since he was a slave owner.

David Vomund is an Incline Village-based fee-only money manager. Information is found at www.VomundInvestments.com or by calling 775-832-8555. Clients hold the positions mentioned in this article. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Consult your financial advisor before purchasing any security.