Which regions of the U.S. were affected the most by the Great Recession of 2007-2009? What were the main reasons for their economic downfall? What is the poverty rate in America? Which groups of the population have been affected the most? Which regions? Do you see any similarities with the current corona-virus driven recession?

How does the U.S. compare with the rest of the advanced countries in the world in terms of poverty rates and middle-class income? Please discuss.