That was, in fact, a very low figure by historical standards.
Today's participation rates are not exactly poor by historical standards.
By historical standards, 4 percent is low, close to what would have been considered full employment even in the 1960's.
But if the price is low by historical standards, the taxes are not.
Still, by historical standards, 2.7 percent is a respectable number.
That is 47 cents less than a month ago - yet still high by historical standards.
While the recent economic performance is better than in the administration's first three years, it isn't at all exceptional by historical standards.
He noted that the 3 percent key rate set early this month was "very low by historical standards."
By historical standards, interest rates are still far below normal levels.
The company is spending an average of $145,241 a home, a high price by historical standards.