The air crackles with economic tension. The term “tariff war” has become commonplace in our daily news, a stark reminder of the fragility of global trade and interconnectedness. But beyond the statistics and political rhetoric, what is the human cost of these escalating trade disputes? How are the lives and livelihoods of ordinary people being shaped by the imposition of tariffs and the subsequent retaliations? It is in this crucial space that oral history offers a powerful and often overlooked lens.

Oral history, the collection of personal narratives through interviews, allows us to capture the lived experiences of individuals navigating the complexities of this unfolding economic conflict. It moves beyond macroeconomic indicators to reveal the micro-level impacts: the anxieties of farmers facing shrinking export markets, the struggles of small business owners grappling with increased import costs, the uncertainty of factory workers whose jobs hang in the balance due to disrupted supply chains.

Imagine the stories waiting to be told:

Behind the headlines and economic reports detailing the intricacies of the current tariff war lie countless individual narratives, each a testament to the tangible human impact of these global trade disputes. To truly grasp the weight of these policies, we must move beyond abstract figures and consider the lived realities of those directly affected. Consider, for a moment, the echoes of anxiety and uncertainty rippling through communities and families:

• The Soybean Farmer: For generations, their livelihood depended on exporting soybeans. Now, with new tariffs imposed by a major trading partner, their storage silos are overflowing, and prices have plummeted. What are their hopes and fears for the future of their farm and their family?
• The Textile Factory Worker: The factory they’ve worked in for years relies on imported raw materials. Increased tariffs have made these materials more expensive, leading to production cuts and whispers of potential layoffs. How are they coping with this uncertainty, and what does it mean for their community?
• The Small Retailer: Their business thrived on offering a variety of imported goods. Now, with tariffs driving up prices, customers are hesitant to buy, and their profit margins are squeezed. Are they considering closing shop, and what impact will that have on their family and the local economy?

These are not just hypothetical scenarios.

The current trade war, marked by escalating tariffs between major global players like the United States, China, Canada, and Mexico, is already having tangible effects. As of April 2025, we’ve witnessed significant tariff hikes and retaliatory measures across a wide range of goods. For instance, recent reports indicate China has increased tariffs on some US goods to 125% in response to US levies. Similarly, the US has imposed near-universal tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico, though some exemptions exist for goods compliant with the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement.)

Historically, trade disputes have often led to significant economic consequences. The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act in the US during the Great Depression is a stark reminder of how protectionist measures can exacerbate economic downturns, leading to retaliatory tariffs and a decline in global trade. The current climate echoes some of these historical precedents, although the interconnectedness of today’s global economy adds another layer of complexity.

Oral history provides a crucial counter-narrative to the often abstract discussions of trade policy. It grounds the debate in the realities of human experience, highlighting the social and emotional toll of economic conflict. By listening to the voices of those directly affected, we can gain a deeper understanding of the true costs of tariff wars and potentially inform more humane and effective policy responses.

As this trade war continues to unfold, the collection of oral histories becomes increasingly vital. These personal accounts will serve as a powerful testament to this moment in time, offering future generations a glimpse into the human dimensions of a global economic upheaval. They will remind us that behind every tariff and trade statistic lies a human story waiting to be heard.

We’re eager to hear your perspective on the ongoing tariff wars. Please share your opinions and comments in the section below!

Dive Deeper into Oral History

While you’re here, check out our blog post, “Echoes of the Chair: Oral History in the Shadow of a Papal Transition.” It explores the vital role of oral tradition in shaping our understanding of papal transitions and their impact.

Remember to always be kind, stay positive, and take time to unwind.