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The state has grown from a tenth to half of GDP

Original title: Government spending as share of GDP · Our World in Data · 12 Jun 2026

What does the data say about government spending as share of GDP?

Our World in DataView original

Original chart: Our World in Data

So what

Before 1914 most governments spent around 10% of GDP; today France spends 57%, Germany and Sweden about half, the US 38%. Almost all of the rise came between 1913 and 1980, driven by wars and the welfare state. With ageing and defence pressures, the next move is more likely up than down.

Data sources
International Monetary Fund (Public Finances in Modern History)
Authors
Our World in Data
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