Comparing Recessions 4

GDP was down at a 6.2% annualized rate in the last quarter of 2008 (revised figure).  Earlier I criticized the Minneapolis Fed for a peculiar way of presenting data comparing recessions.  I've been impressed, however, with how they have responded since I (and others) raised this issue.  First, they quickly clarified what they were doing.  Second, today they have added a very nice javascript which lets you compare output and employment during this recession to as many others as you like with a few clicks.  Check it out.