Great Depression

Definition

The Great Depression was a severe worldwide economic downturn that lasted from 1929 until the late 1930s, marked by a dramatic decline in economic activity, widespread unemployment, and significant deflation. Its effects were deeply felt across the United States, particularly in regions like Appalachia, where the economic struggle became a defining aspect of life. The crisis not only influenced economic policies but also reshaped cultural representations in media and arts, highlighting the challenges faced by communities during this time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Great Depression began with the stock market crash on October 29, 1929, known as Black Tuesday, which led to a massive loss of wealth and confidence in the economy.
2. Appalachia was hit particularly hard by the Great Depression, with many communities facing extreme poverty, job loss, and a decline in traditional industries like coal mining.
3. The federal government implemented various relief programs to support struggling families, including food assistance and job creation initiatives.
4. Media representations during the Great Depression often portrayed the struggles of rural communities in Appalachia, highlighting themes of resilience and hardship.
5. The economic challenges of the Great Depression ultimately led to significant changes in labor policies and social welfare programs in America.

Review Questions

• How did the Great Depression impact Appalachian communities differently compared to urban areas?
  • Appalachian communities faced unique challenges during the Great Depression due to their reliance on traditional industries like coal mining and agriculture. While urban areas may have had access to more diverse job opportunities, many Appalachian towns experienced high unemployment rates and a significant decline in economic activity. This situation led to increased poverty levels and a need for federal relief efforts specifically targeting rural populations.
• In what ways did media representation during the Great Depression shape public perception of Appalachian people and their struggles?
  • Media representation during the Great Depression played a crucial role in shaping public perception of Appalachian people by highlighting their struggles and resilience. Documentaries, photographs, and literature often portrayed rural families dealing with poverty and hardship, which drew national attention to their plight. This representation not only fostered empathy but also influenced policy decisions related to economic aid and development aimed at improving conditions in Appalachia.
• Evaluate how the economic policies enacted during the Great Depression influenced long-term development strategies in Appalachia.
  • The economic policies implemented during the Great Depression, such as those included in the New Deal, had lasting impacts on development strategies in Appalachia. Initiatives like the WPA helped create jobs and infrastructure improvements that laid the groundwork for future economic growth. However, they also highlighted systemic issues within the region's economy that required ongoing attention. As a result, policymakers began to focus more on sustainable development strategies that addressed not just immediate needs but also long-term economic resilience for Appalachian communities.

Related terms

New Deal: A series of programs and reforms introduced by President Franklin D. Roosevelt aimed at recovering the U.S. economy during the Great Depression.

Dust Bowl: A severe drought during the 1930s that exacerbated the Great Depression, particularly affecting agriculture and rural communities in the Midwest.

WPA (Works Progress Administration): A New Deal agency that provided millions of jobs through public works projects, significantly impacting employment in Appalachia and other regions.