The United States is best described as a mixed economy, although there were periods in U.S. history when it was closer to a free trade economy. The government of the U.S. has always played some role in economic affairs. Over time, more and more services have come under the influence or direct control of the public sector. A free trade economy requires that all property be owned by private individuals and all goods and services be privately provided. Prices are allowed to fluctuate based on supply and demand, and all transactions are voluntary, not compelled or restricted by the government. Conversely, a mixed economic system has elements of both free trade and planned economic control by government. There are several different ways market economies
