Recessions can be scary and have real-world consequences on jobs and the stock market. However, they are a part of life as a long-term investor. Recessions can threaten weak companies that lack the fundamental strength to survive economic downturns.

How do you know a business can survive tough times? Dividends are a great litmus test. Look for companies that can share their earnings with investors and continue increasing that payout through recessions. The U.S. economy has fallen into recession four times since 1990.

Investment management company T. Rowe Price (NASDAQ: TROW) has raised its dividend in all four recessions as well as annually for the last 38 years. Here is the secret behind T. Rowe Price's longevity and why it could be an excellent buy for any long-term investor today.

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Source Fool.com