The United States has always been a symbol of economic opportunity. Since the colonial era, people have come to America to take advantage of the freedom of owning land, starting a business, or pursuing a dream of economic prosperity.

The term "free enterprise" is often associated with the economy of the United States. There are two main characteristics of a free enterprise system. First, individuals own the land in which goods and services are produced. Second, there is limited government involvement in the economy.

In this resource, you will examine the development of the free enterprise system of the United States from the 17th to 19th centuries. Read the diagram below about the characteristics of today's free enterprise system.