Mentioned as a background influence, Keynes is associated with monetary theory that encourages government manipulation of the money supply, which the Friedmans view as leading to fiscal mismanagement.

An advocate for education reform in the 1830s and 1840s, Mann supports the establishment of compulsory public schooling, which the Friedmans argue lacks competition and hinders educational quality.

Criticized by the Friedmans, Roosevelt is known for increasing government control of economic activities during the Depression, which they argue had lasting economic implications.

An 18th-century philosopher whose seminal work, "The Wealth of Nations," introduces the concept of the invisible hand, advocating for voluntary economic actions and against trade restrictions.

As the first chairman of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Strong's leadership is noted for contributing to the economic stability of the 1920s before his death in 1928.