Here’s some historical context you may find surprising: Not counting the current one, we’ve survived 18 government shutdowns to date. The first was during President Carter’s administration in 1976. Half were during Democratic and half during Republican presidencies. President Clinton holds the record for the longest one, at 21 days. Here we go again.

I found these and other fascinating details about past shutdowns in this excellent “Historical Musings” column by librarian and editor Bonnie K. Goodman. I do not intend to minimize the very real threats we face during the current shutdown. They are worrisome, indeed. But maybe it explains why our efficient markets seem more peeved than alarmed by the news so far.

An historical perspective is one worth bearing in mind as you contemplate whether there is anything you should be doing with your own investments in light of current events. If the historical context isn’t enough, I also invite you to read two excellent posts from CBS MoneyWatch columnist Larry Swedroe (where I also came across Goodman’s work):

How the shutdown affects your investment plan (posted October 7)

How investors should think about the shutdown (posted October 8)

Are you still unsure about what all this really means to you and your family’s money? Hey, that’s what we’re here for. Give us a call.

Are you taking too much risk with your investments?