Today in our reading of Elijah of Buxton, Elijah received 5 cents from Mrs. Holton for writing a memorial tablet for her husband. Then Mrs. Holton gave Mr. Leroy $2200 to purchase his family's freedom. We began wondering how much that amount is in today's money. Here's a way to find out!
http://www.westegg.com/inflation/ Enter different amounts in today's money (2009 is the last year you can use) and calculate how much it was in 1859.
Complete these problems for homework, and post as a comment here, or write down the answers to bring to school tomorrow.
1. In 1859 Elijah got $0.05 (5 cents) for his work for Mrs. Holton. How much is that in 2009 dollars?
2. How much is Mr. Leroy's $2200 in 2009?
3. Find out how much your dream car would cost in today's money. If cars existed in 1859, how much would that dream car cost?
4. Ask your parents for the usual cost of 3 items they purchase often (such as bread, eggs, or milk). How much would those 3 things have cost in 1859?
Great assignment!
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