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Homework Help: Social Studies: U.S. History: The Great Depression
by Taylor Jepsen
In the Great Depression the American dream became a nightmare. The land of
opportunity was now the land of despair. The land of hope and optimism had
become the lad of despair. The American people were questioning all the maxims
on which they had based their lives, they had questioned democracy, capitalism,
and individualism. The greatest hope for a better life was California. Farmers
packed their families into cars and sought work in the agricultural fields or
cities of the West. Between 1929 and 1932 the income of the average American
family was reduced by 40%. Democracies such as Germany and Italy fall to
dictatorships, but America and its constitution survived. Economics dominated
politics in the 1930’s. The decade began with towns called Hovervilles and ended
with and alphabet soup of federal programs funded by the national government.
The Social Security Act of 1935 set up a program to ensure and income for the
elderly. The Wagner Act of 1935 gave workers the legal right to unionize.
News Clips
One of the suicides caused by financial ruin was that of Wilfred E. Gerry. The
article describes his death and attributes it to losses in the recent stock
market crash. Sheboygan, Wisconsin - Dec 30, 1929 Sheboygan Press
Another suicide caused by the stock market crash, this time only an
unsuccessful attempt. A suicide note explains this incident as an escape from
financial ruin. Newark, Ohio - Nov 15, 1929 Newark Advocate
Various articles concerning bank responses to the panic ensuing from mass
withdrawals. Withdrawal restrictions are placed on account holders. Lima, Ohio -
Feb 27, 1933 Lima News
A question and answer session explaining the provisions of the NES farm bill,
which is awaiting President Roosevelt's signature. Yet another act regulating
the economy amidst the Great Depression. Elyria, Ohio - Feb 16, 1938 Chronicle
Telegram
Describes a step in approving the minimum wage laws. As times of the Great
Depression continue, laws are being passed to control its effects. Reno, Nevada
- May 25, 1938 Nevada State Journal
Several articles concerning the business depression and stock markets during
this time period. Appleton, Wisconsin - Nov 1, 1930 Appleton Post Crescent
Homework Help: Social Studies: U.S. History
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