The Great Depression, a period of severe economic downturn that began in 1929, impacted nearly every facet of American life, but the most vulnerable populations suffered the most.
Unemployed Workers
- Job losses skyrocketed. Millions of Americans lost their jobs, leaving families struggling to make ends meet.
- Wages plummeted. Even those who managed to keep their jobs often saw their wages slashed, making it impossible to afford basic necessities.
- Lack of safety nets. Government assistance programs were limited, leaving many jobless individuals and families without any financial support.
Farmers
- Crop prices crashed. The demand for agricultural products plummeted, leading to a steep decline in farm income.
- Foreclosures became commonplace. Many farmers were unable to pay their mortgages and lost their land.
- Dust Bowl intensified the crisis. The Dust Bowl, a period of severe drought and dust storms in the 1930s, devastated farmlands and further exacerbated the plight of farmers.
Minorities
- African Americans faced discrimination. Black Americans were disproportionately affected by the Depression due to existing racial discrimination in employment, housing, and education.
- Mexican Americans faced deportation. In the face of economic hardship, the government deported thousands of Mexican Americans, even those who had been living in the United States for years.
- Native Americans faced continued hardship. Native Americans, already marginalized and living in poverty, struggled to access basic resources and services during the Depression.
Women
- Women faced limited opportunities. Despite the economic hardship, women were often excluded from many jobs and faced unequal pay.
- Household burdens increased. With men out of work, women were expected to manage household finances and care for their families.
- Social safety nets were inadequate. Limited access to government assistance programs and social services further impacted women's ability to cope with the Depression.
The Great Depression had a profound and lasting impact on American society. Its effects were felt most acutely by the most vulnerable populations, who were already facing significant challenges before the economic downturn.
