The great depression

Definition

The Great Depression was a severe worldwide economic downturn that lasted from 1929 until the late 1930s, characterized by massive unemployment, falling GDP, and widespread poverty. It deeply affected various aspects of society, including culture, family dynamics, and local economies, particularly in regions like Appalachia, where communities were already facing challenges due to resource depletion and industrial decline.

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 triggered widespread financial panic and bank failures.
2. In Appalachia, the Great Depression intensified existing poverty, as many families relied on subsistence farming and faced challenges from industrial decline.
3. Children's literature from this period often reflected themes of hardship, resilience, and hope, capturing the experiences of young people living through economic turmoil.
4. The Federal Writers' Project played a crucial role in documenting oral histories and folklore in Appalachia during the Great Depression, preserving stories that emphasized cultural identity.
5. Many Appalachian families turned to communal support systems during the Great Depression, illustrating strong family ties and community bonds that helped them endure economic struggles.

Review Questions

• How did the Great Depression specifically impact children's literature in Appalachia?
  • The Great Depression had a profound impact on children's literature in Appalachia as authors began to address the harsh realities faced by families during this time. Stories often depicted themes of survival, resilience, and community support, reflecting the experiences of children growing up in economically strained environments. This literature served not only as entertainment but also as a means to convey moral lessons and cultural values that helped young readers navigate their challenging circumstances.
• Analyze how the Federal Writers' Project contributed to our understanding of Appalachian culture during the Great Depression.
  • The Federal Writers' Project was instrumental in collecting and preserving narratives from Appalachia during the Great Depression. By documenting oral histories, folk tales, and local traditions, it provided valuable insights into the region's cultural heritage amidst economic adversity. This initiative not only highlighted the struggles faced by Appalachian communities but also showcased their resilience and creativity through storytelling, enriching our understanding of their unique identity during this tumultuous period.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the Great Depression on Appalachian communities as depicted in children's literature produced during that era.
  • The long-term effects of the Great Depression on Appalachian communities were significant and are vividly portrayed in children's literature from that time. These stories often illustrate themes of hardship but also resilience and hope for a better future. The narratives shaped by this era highlight how families adapted to economic challenges and fostered strong community ties. Over time, such literature has influenced contemporary understandings of Appalachian identity and history, emphasizing the cultural richness that emerged even amidst adversity.

Related terms

New Deal: A series of programs and reforms introduced by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to address the economic hardships of the Great Depression and promote recovery.

Dust Bowl: A period of severe dust storms in the 1930s that greatly damaged agriculture in the American prairies, exacerbating the economic struggles during the Great Depression.

Cultural Resilience: The ability of a community or culture to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity, often seen in Appalachian literature and storytelling during the Great Depression.