The Great Depression 1929–1939

Overview Period from the end of 1929 until the onset of World War II, during which economic activity slowed tremendously and unemployment was very high.

Overview The Great Depression started with the 1929 Wall Street stock market crash. It had devastating effects on all sectors of the economy for over a decade. Wages for workers who were lucky enough to have jobs fell drastically.

Effects Businesses Failed

Financial Institutions Closed Effects Financial Institutions Closed

Effects Factories Shut Down

Farm Prices Fell Drastically Effects Farm Prices Fell Drastically

Many People Became Homeless Effects Many People Became Homeless

Effects People Went Hungry

Test Your Knowledge

Question 1 By 1932, how many people were unemployed? In 1930, 5 million people were unemployed. By 1932, how many people were unemployed? 7 Million 10 Million 13 Million

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Question 2 How much higher was African-American unemployment compared to white unemployment? 10–20% Higher 30–50% Higher 60–70% Higher

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Question 3 Besides African-Americans, which group suffered the most during the depression? Women Farmers Whites

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Question 4 Presently, accountants earn about $750 per week. How much did they earn during the depression? $45 per week $65 per week $95 per week

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Question 5 Presently, the average cost of a woman’s winter coat is about $150. How much did it cost during the depression? $5 $17 $28

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End