The Great Depression Overview

Study Notes

The Great Depression Overview

The Great Depression was the largest economic downturn in U.S. history, leading to widespread unemployment and labor issues.
Unemployment soared to 25% at the peak, severely impacting both urban and rural populations.

Urban Struggles

Unemployed urban Americans faced dire conditions, waiting in long lines for soup and work.
Many resorted to theft and lived in makeshift shantytowns.

Rural Hardships

Farmers in the central U.S. and Midwest struggled as they depleted the soil, resulting in the 'Dust Bowl.'
This ecological disaster led to massive dust storms that buried homes, equipment, and livestock.

Labor Strife

Significant protests erupted, disrupting the manufacturing sector during the Depression.

Impact on Minority Groups

The economic crisis had a more devastating effect on minority groups, compounding existing struggles.
Sharecroppers lost their leases and faced eviction from farms.

Latino and Asian Communities

Latino and Asian individuals were scapegoated for job losses among white Americans, facing increased hostility.
Many Latinos were deported during this period, regardless of their legal status.

African American Experience

African Americans were among the first to lose jobs, particularly in major cities.
In the South, they experienced severe violence and discrimination from white populations.
The implementation of the poll tax sought to disenfranchise Black voters and restrict jury participation.

Lasting Impact

The suffering endured during the Great Depression persisted until the U.S. entered World War II, which began to change economic conditions.

Description

This quiz covers the key aspects of the Great Depression, highlighting its impact on unemployment, urban and rural struggles, and the Dust Bowl phenomenon. Explore how these factors contributed to the United States' most significant economic downturn and cultural shifts during the 1930s.