Group 1: Historical Context of Manufacturing - The rise of manufacturing in both the UK and the US was driven by market expansion, following the logic of "market first, industry later" [3] - The UK became a trade center for cotton textiles in the 17th century, with exports increasing from 12,500 pieces in 1614 to 877,789 pieces by 1700, a nearly 70-fold increase [9] - The US experienced rapid population growth in the 19th century, increasing nearly tenfold from 1800 to 1900, which fueled domestic demand for manufacturing [20] Group 2: Decline of US Manufacturing - The US manufacturing sector has faced two significant declines in supply chain support: the first in the 1980s, primarily in machinery and automotive industries, and the second from the 2010s onward across nearly all manufacturing categories [4] - By the late 20th century, the US manufacturing share of global output remained around 30%, but has since been declining due to increased competition from other countries [32] - The US has lost significant comparative advantages in core manufacturing sectors such as machinery, general chemicals, and electronics, while gaining in pharmaceuticals and energy-related sectors [49] Group 3: Factors Contributing to Manufacturing Resilience - The US historically maintained a diverse industrial base and high export diversity, covering nearly all manufacturing categories, which provided resilience against market fluctuations [34] - The high level of supply chain integration in the US allowed for a complete domestic supply chain in many core industries until the late 20th century [40] - The US manufacturing sector benefited from a dual advantage of resource exports and manufactured goods, allowing it to maintain a strong position in global trade [36]