the protectionist issue is especially intense in the united states because of the trends illustrated by figure 1-1. since world war II the united states has advocated free trade in the world economy, viewing international trade as a force not only for prosperity but also for world peace. with the growing importance of international trade in the U.S. economy and with growing concern that foreign competition might be driving down the wages of at least some american workers-this traditional free-trade position has come under growing pressure. the result has been a confused political picture. on one side, the united states has negotiated major free-trade agreement, such as the north american free trade agreement with canada and mexico and the so-called uruguay round agreement. on the other side, the united stated has become increasingly aggressive in trade disputer with countries such as japan, south korea, and china; and frankly protectionist political statements have become increasingly common from politicians in both major parties.