Chart of the Day - Unemployment rate above 10% for only the second time since WWII

Chart of the Day

Today, the Labor Department reported that the unemployment rate increased to 10.2% -- a 26-year high. For some perspective on the current state of the labor market, today's chart illustrates the unemployment rate since 1948. As today's chart illustrates, today's move above the 10% threshold marks only the second time such a move has occurred during the post-World War II era. It is also worth noting that the unemployment rate has tended to peak shortly after the end of the recession. Following the previous two recessions, however, the unemployment rate kept rising for many months following the beginning of an economic "expansion."

Notes:
- Where's the market headed? The answer may surprise you. Find out right now with the exclusive & Barron's recommended charts of Chart of the Day Plus.

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Quote of the Day
"It's not the most intellectual job in the world, but I do have to know the letters." - Vanna White

Events of the Day
November 07, 2009 - Breeders' Cup
November 11, 2009 - Veterans Day

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