Trade has been an important factor in United States from the 17th century to the present day. The United States was born out of a trade dispute with Great Britain. From the moment the founders first set pen to paper, trade has helped spur U.S. economic growth. This booklet covers trade topics such as policy, perspectives, difference in nations trading, workers rights, barriers, equity issues, consumers outlook, governments involvement, trade disputes, trade impact on the environment, and General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT)/World Trade Organization (WTO) sovereignty. Concluding the booklet is a glossary and a 22-item list of further readings on trade and related topics. The teacher's guide presents ideas for classroom activities along with a pretest, posttest, and classroom handouts with accompanying answer keys. Goals for students to attain are to understand how trade affects individual daily lives; define concepts relating to trade and economic interdependence; know the different perspectives people have on trade in the world economy; and realize the need for continuing cooperation among nations in order to maintain a balance of trade. (JAG)