Niall Ferguson, in his book "Colossus," argues that protectionist policies in less developed nations during the 1970s and 1980s significantly contributed to rising international inequality. These measures, which countries adopted to shield their economies, often stifled growth and hindered economic integration with the global market.

Ferguson's analysis suggests that rather than fostering development, these protectionist strategies led to economic stagnation in these countries, widening the gap between the developed and developing world. By restricting trade and competition, many nations found themselves struggling to improve their economic standing, ultimately exacerbating global economic disparities.