Higgs analyzes specific "critical episodes" that fueled this growth:
During an emergency (e.g., World War I, the Great Depression, World War II), the government rapidly seizes new powers and increases spending.
The expansion of the U.S. federal government during the 20th century. 🔑 The "Ratchet Effect" The book is famous for introducing the Ratchet Effect .
Approximately 350–384 pages depending on the edition.