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The Great Depression was a period of economic downturn that had far-reaching effects on American society. It reached into every area of economic life, impacting every aspect of social life as well. The Depression was caused by a combination of factors, including the decline of industries like construction and automobiles due to lack of diversification, oversupply of goods compared to consumer demands, low crop prices leading to farmer debt, a decline in international trade, and the burden of international debt from World War I.
While the stock market crash of 1929 is often seen as the trigger for the Great Depression, it was not the sole cause.
The closure of 9,000 American banks between 1930 and 1933 due to bankruptcy, and a severe 25% drop in the American gross national product over three years, were also significant contributors to the economic crisis.
Unemployment soared during the Great Depression, leading many Americans to feel personally responsible for their job loss. Families turned to state and local public relief systems for survival, while the Great Plains region experienced one of the worst droughts in history, leaving Kansas soil devoid of moisture.
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This led to the migration of Okies from the Dust Bowl to states like California in search of work, often facing starvation wages and harsh living conditions.
Minorities faced particular hardships during the Depression. African-Americans experienced high levels of unemployment, homelessness, malnutrition, and disease due to the collapse of crop prices. Racial tensions and discrimination further limited their opportunities for employment. Mexican-Americans also faced discrimination and limited access to resources, leading many to return to Mexico.
Asian-Americans were economically marginalized, with educated individuals often not recognized for their qualifications. Organizations like the Japanese American Citizens League were formed to combat discrimination against racial and ethnic minorities.
Women's roles shifted during the Depression, as many entered the workforce to support their families. While traditional gender roles dictated that women should stay at home, economic necessity forced many women to seek employment. By the end of the Depression, 20% more women were working than at the beginning, challenging societal norms.
The cultural landscape of the 1930s was shaped by the Depression, with new forms of entertainment like radio, movies, literature, and journalism providing a voice for the struggles of the era. The popularity of radio and movies, including the work of Walt Disney, provided a much-needed escape for Americans during difficult times.
President Herbert Hoover's response to the Great Depression focused on restoring public confidence in the economy. He worked with businessmen to increase wages and implemented programs to assist the agricultural sector. However, his efforts were not enough to stem the tide of economic hardship, leading to a decline in his popularity and the Democrats gaining control of both the House and Senate.
The impact of the Depression was felt in the 1932 election, where Herbert Hoover faced off against Franklin D. Roosevelt. Roosevelt's victory marked a significant shift in American politics, as he implemented the New Deal to address the economic crisis. Hoover's loss in the election, carrying only a few states, signaled a rejection of his policies and a desire for change among the American people.
The Far-Reaching Effects of the Great Depression on American Society. (2016, Dec 17). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/the-great-depression-6-essay
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