[wpietri]

> Then look for it; it's all over the web.

I did look. I didn't find, and it's not my job to prove somebody else's assertions.

Since you've seen it all over the web, I'm sure you'll be able to find it for me quickly, though. In particular I'm looking for time series data showing value added via manufacturing for the last 50 years or so, plus similar data on consumption of manufactured goods. Ideally in actual dollars of the day. Or if it's inflation-corrected, then it will be documented well enough that I can subtract that effect.

> I find it hard to believe anyone who says we've lost manufacturing strength.

I recommend starting with the blog "Evolving Excellence", written by a manufacturer and a manufacturing consultant. They're pretty clear on it.