Causes of the Great Depression

Stock Market Crash: The stock market crash of 1929, known as Black Tuesday, was a major contributor to the onset of the Great Depression. It led to a significant decline in consumer spending and investment.
Bank Failures: As a result of the stock market crash, many banks failed, leading to a loss of savings for millions of people and a decrease in the availability of credit.
Protectionist Trade Policies: Many countries implemented protectionist trade policies, such as tariffs and trade barriers, which led to a decrease in international trade and further worsened the economic situation.
Dust Bowl: Severe drought and poor farming practices in the Great Plains led to the Dust Bowl, causing widespread agricultural devastation and contributing to the economic hardship.
Decrease in Consumer Spending: The economic uncertainty led to a significant decrease in consumer spending, further exacerbating the economic downturn.

Impact of the Great Depression

Unemployment: Unemployment rates soared, with millions of people losing their jobs and struggling to find work.
Homelessness and Poverty: Many individuals and families were left homeless and lived in poverty due to the economic hardships.
Global Economic Crisis: The effects of the Great Depression were felt worldwide, with many countries experiencing economic downturns and hardships.
Government Interventions: The Great Depression led to the implementation of various government programs and policies aimed at providing relief and stimulating the economy, including the New Deal in the United States.
Social Impact: The Great Depression had a profound impact on society, leading to increased social unrest and challenges for individuals and communities.

Study Guide for the Great Depression

Key Events and Dates

Make sure to familiarize yourself with the following key events and dates related to the Great Depression:

Stock Market Crash of 1929 (Black Tuesday)
Beginning of the Dust Bowl in the early 1930s
Passage of the New Deal legislation in the mid-1930s
World War II and its impact on the end of the Great Depression in the late 1930s and early 1940s

Causes and Contributing Factors

Understand the various causes and contributing factors that led to the onset and deepening of the Great Depression, including the stock market crash, bank failures, protectionist trade policies, the Dust Bowl, and the decrease in consumer spending.

Impact and Consequences

Examine the impact of the Great Depression on individuals, families, and countries, including the high unemployment rates, homelessness, poverty, global economic crisis, government interventions, and social repercussions.

Government Response and New Deal

Explore the government interventions and policies implemented in response to the Great Depression, particularly the New Deal and its various programs aimed at providing relief, recovery, and reform.