Gallup’s Economic Confidence Index is based on Americans’ current perception of economic conditions and whether they feel the economy is getting better or worse. Since tracking began in 2008, the index has reflected a generally negative view of the economy and where it was headed. Americans’ economic outlook hadn’t even entered positive territory until late May of this year. And, after that, public perception began to decline again, getting significantly worse during October’s government shutdown. But over the past five weeks, Americans’ confidence has been back on the rise. The index has improved by 15 points since mid-October. And, though it hasn’t returned to the peaks of early summer, it is on track to end 2013 better than it has been in, at least, six years. More here.