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Teaching Economics

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Data Starter: Annual working hours per worker, 1870-2023

Elizabeth Veal

10th March 2026

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What has happened to the hours of work people do over time?

Using the OurWorldinData chart, answer these calculation questions:

  1. Calculate the percentage change in weekly hours worked in the UK between 1870 and 2023 (Assume 52 weeks in a year).
  2. Compare the annual hours worked per person since 1950 in Germany and the USA.

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Elizabeth Veal

Liz has taught Economics for over 25 years, including several years as Head of Economics at leading schools.

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