The line graph illustrates changes in the percentage of the USA labour force employed across five distinct sectors between 1930 and 2010. Overall, the industrial sector underwent a massive contraction, whereas the farming, fishing, and foresting sector saw a steady rise, eventually becoming the most prominent employer by the end of the period.
In 1930, the industrial sector dominated the labour market, accounting for 75% of employment. However, this figure plummeted consistently over the following decades, reaching 40% by 1980 and falling to a negligible 2% by 2010. Conversely, the farming, fishing, and foresting sector started at 0% in 1930 and remained stagnant until 1960. Thereafter, it grew rapidly, peaking at 35% in 2000 before settling at 34% in 2010.
Regarding the remaining sectors, technical employment showed a gradual upward trend, rising from 2% in 1930 to 25% by 2010. Sales and office employment fluctuated, starting at 10%, peaking at 20% in 2000, and remaining stable thereafter. Finally, other services experienced volatility, initially dropping from 10% to 2% in 1940, before recovering and plateauing at 10% from 1970 onwards.