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121 Great Depression Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

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The Great Depression was a period of economic hardship and social upheaval that took place in the United States during the 1930s. It was a time of widespread unemployment, poverty, and despair, as millions of Americans struggled to make ends meet. The effects of the Great Depression were felt around the world, as economies in other countries also suffered from the global economic downturn.

If you are studying the Great Depression and need some inspiration for essay topics, look no further! Here are 121 great Depression essay topic ideas and examples to help you get started:

• The causes of the Great Depression
• The impact of the stock market crash of 1929
• The role of government in responding to the Great Depression
• The Dust Bowl and its effects on American farmers
• The role of women during the Great Depression
• The impact of the Great Depression on African Americans
• The role of the New Deal in addressing the Great Depression
• The impact of the Great Depression on children and families
• The impact of the Great Depression on the arts and culture
• The role of international factors in the Great Depression
• The impact of the Great Depression on labor unions
• The impact of the Great Depression on rural communities
• The impact of the Great Depression on urban communities
• The role of the Federal Reserve in causing the Great Depression
• The impact of the Great Depression on the banking industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on international trade
• The impact of the Great Depression on the automobile industry
• The role of consumer spending in causing the Great Depression
• The impact of the Great Depression on the housing market
• The impact of the Great Depression on the entertainment industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the fashion industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the healthcare industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the education system
• The impact of the Great Depression on the environment
• The impact of the Great Depression on the energy industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the food industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the technology industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the telecommunications industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the transportation industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the tourism industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the retail industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the hospitality industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the real estate industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the construction industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the manufacturing industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the mining industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the oil and gas industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the agriculture industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the fishing industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the forestry industry
• The impact of the Great Depression on the pharmaceutical industry
• The impact of the Great Depression

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122 Great Depression Research Topics & Essay Titles

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The New Deal and the Great Depression

The “New Deal” was President Roosevelt’s initiative meant to help the US economy recover from the Great Depression. Its main objectives targeted agriculture, fees, and unemployment. The Congress put plenty of budget and effort into making it work, and it did. You can examine all the facets of the New Deal and its effect on the economy.

Great Depression in Germany

Americans weren’t the only ones who felt the effects of the Great Depression. The Wall Street crash hit Germany’s economy hard. Millions of people found themselves unemployed and facing poverty. But why did Germany suffer more than other countries? What did it have to do with US loans?

Government Response to the Great Depression

The US government’s response to the Great Depression was the approval of the “New Deal.” It helped people struggling with unemployment. The initiative grew into the modern Social Security system that allows retired citizens and everyone in need. In your paper, look into the main positive changes that Americans saw thanks to the government’s response to the Great Depression.

The Great Depression and John Steinbeck

John Steinbeck finally had a breakthrough as the author of the “Dustbowl Trilogy.” His novels were dedicated to the suffering of the Midwestern farmers during the Great Depression. Steinbeck’s works motivated the government, pushing them to provide more support to the underprivileged rural population. Your essay can explain how a single man could make such a change in the US economy?

The Great Depression in Canada

Canadians have endured hardships during the Great Depression as well. Just like in other countries, people in Canada faced extreme levels of unemployment and hunger. Why was that period called the Dirty Thirties? What did people depend the most on back then?

• The Impact of the Great Depression on Women, Families, and Children The consequences of the Great Depression had a great impact on different social groups in the United States, including women, families, and children.
• Riding the Rails: Hobo Kids During Great Depression The decline in stock production in the market in October 1929, which was accompanied by calamity, resulted in numerous Americans suffering from economic declines.
• Great Depression and Romanticism in America The great depression influenced American romanticism in a great way. Romanticism refers to a movement that used literature, music, and art to communicate messages to society.
• The Impact of the Great Depression on US Economy and the New Deal’s Legacy The Great Depression, a global economic crisis, led to transformative changes in US policies. Roosevelt’s New Deal improved African American conditions.
• The Aftermaths of the Great Depression Before the Great Depression that emanated from the collapse of the stock market in 1929, Latin America enjoyed a period of consumer boom as the leading international exporter.
• The Great Depression: Details, Reasons, and Effects The Great Depression was a global economic recession that emerged in 1929 and remained until approximately 1939 and was exceptionally long and severe in the USA and Europe.
• The Great Depression and New Deal Solutions The paper discusses the causes of the Great Depression. They included the situation of the nation’s agricultural sector coupled with the uneven distribution of wealth.
• How the US Was Able to Handle the Great Depression This paper aims to examine some of the factors that enabled the U.S. to remain relatively stable and recover from the outcomes of the Great Depression.
• The Great Depression vs. The Civil Rights Movement The Great Depression had an impact compared to the Civil Rights Movement because it affected many people, and transformed the American culture more profoundly.
• Great Depression as Great Shame of Canada: Causes and Effects The Great Depression will always be remembered in the history of the U.S. and Canada as one of the darkest and most desperate times.
• The Great Depression in America’s Narrative History The conditions caused by the Great Depression were primarily associated with a significant economic crisis. In the wake of panic, depositors began to withdraw money en masse.
• The Great Depression and the New Deal It is important to note that the New Deal was effective at catalyzing the overall recovery of the nation from the Great Depression due to its aggressiveness and promptness
• Great Depression and Its True Causes The causes of the Great Depression are the subject of ongoing discussions about the role of government policies and private business activity.
• American Economy: 1920s and the Great Depression The 1920s laid the foundation for evolving from an industrial economy to a post-industrial economy based on the service and sale sectors.
• The Major Causes of the Great Depression Some of the major causes of the Great Depression include the stock market collapse, the failure of the banking system, the economic downturn in many countries.
• Great Depression and New Deal Impact on Minorities The period of the Great Depression had a significant impact on the United States and largely changed not only the economy but also the social situation in the country.
• The Great Depression in the United States The Great Depression that occurred in the 1930s was a severe economic depression capturing countries worldwide, beginning in the United States.
• The Great Depression and the New Deal Farm Policies The years of the great depression were characterized by poverty, high unemployment, deflation, low profits and plunging farm incomes.
• History: Great Depression and New Deal for Society The Great Depression and the New Deal were challenging for the United States, especially for women, racial and ethnic minorities.
• Great Depression and World War II Impact on the United States Economy Both the Great Depression and World War II heavily impacted the US economy in the first half of the previous century.
• Great Depression and World War II for Americans The Americans encountered numerous problems during the period of the Great Depression. The Second World War also led to many problems in the United States.
• The Great Depression: Limitations and Effects Despite common assumptions, the Great Depression did not touch every socio-economic group. In fact, the very rich felt almost no impact, continuing to live a lavish lifestyle.
• The Great Depression and Military Spending The Great Depression had a devastating impact on the US economy. But military spending could be consider the main tool of it ended and promoting the growth of the industrial sector.
• The Great Depression and Its Effects on Minorities This paper discusses the effects of the Great Depression on the American minorities. It describes the groups and individuals involved and the efforts made to resolve the calamity.
• Roosevelt’s “New Deal” in Great Depression The new deal plan by Franklin Roosevelt was not a viable recovery tool of the Great Depression since it delayed the recovery of the natural economic systems in the United States.
• Great Depression in the United States of America In the decade between 1920 and 1930, the United States of America experienced success in their overall national economy performance.

The stock market crash in 1929 was the chief cause of the severe economic downturn. Businesses lost their invested money and were forced to shut down. Millions of people lost their jobs and were hopeless. It was a truly devastating time period.

If you need a good topic about the stock market crash, look at the list of ideas below:

• What caused the stock market crash and the Great Depression? The causes of the Great Crash in 1929 were low wages, unemployment, and the increase of debt. But what about the more obscure causes of stock market crashes?
• Are there any signs we’ll hit the Great Depression again? The accumulation of factors in the US economy led to the Great Depression. In recent years, people have noticed extreme inflation rates with non-increasing wages. Is the Great Depression having a comeback? Share your thoughts on this issue.
• What happened on Black Tuesday? October 29, 1929, also known as Black Tuesday, was when the stock prices started dropping rapidly after a steady decrease the month before. The stock market collapsed, and the Great Depression began. Your essay may discuss Black Tuesday events from the perspective of investors and bankers.
• The stock market crash 1929: the effects on the average American family. Unemployment and droughts made the lives of lower and middle-class American families much harder. How were they coping with difficulties? Explore the economy of the Great Depression using the example of the average family in the US.
• Stock market crash as a blessing: end of Prohibition. The stock market crash was one of the leading causes of the Great Depression. In an attempt to balance out the economy, the US politicians canceled the Prohibition. How exactly did it work?
• Canadian Government’s Support Toward Its People During the Great Depression
• Pressure-Group Influence and Institutional Change: Branch-Banking Legislation During the Great Depression
• American Culture and Lifestyle During the Great Depression
• Economic Recovery From the Argentine Great Depression: The Change of Macroeconomic Regime
• Banking Crises and the International Monetary System in the Great Depression and Now
• Labor Market Policies: Lessons From Hoover Policies During the U.S Great Depression
• How “Cinderella Man” Depicts Life During the Great Depression
• Organized Labor’s Growth and Consolidation: The Great Depression and World War II
• Flight-To-Safety and the Credit Crunch: A New History of the Banking Crisis in France During the Great Depression
• Shattered Rails, Ruined Credit: Financial Fragility and Railroad Operations in the Great Depression
• The Stock Market Crash, Bank Failures, and the Dust Bowl as the Causes of the Great Depression in America
• Employment, Relief and the Breadwinner Ideal: A Historiography of the Great Depression in Canada
• The Banking Sector and the Great Depression in Bulgaria, 1924 – 1938
• Decomposing the U.S. Great Depression: How Important Were Loan Supply Shocks
• Intensified Regulatory Scrutiny and Bank Distress in New York City During the Great Depression
• The Demand for Money in the U.S. During the Great Depression
• The History and Effects of the Great Depression in the United States and the Government’s Solution to the Economic Problem
• Changing the Rules: State Mortgage Foreclosure Moratoria During the Great Depression
• Bank Leverage and Regulatory Regimes: Evidence From the Great Depression and Great Recession
• How the Great Depression Ended by United States Entry Into the Second World War
• The Shoe That Didn’t Drop: Explaining Banking Stability During the Great Depression
• Corporate Governance and the Plight of Minority Shareholders in the United States Before the Great Depression
• Work‐Sharing During the Great Depression: Did the ‘President’s Reemployment Agreement’ Promote Reemployment?

The unstable economy snowballed and led to global political disturbances in the 1930s. If you want to write an essay about them, check out these government and politics topic ideas:

• Changes the Roosevelt administration brought to the economy. After the elections, Franklin Roosevelt actively began transforming the American economy by launching aid programs and opening new institutions. What were the perks of his political strategy? Research this topic and write down your thoughts.
• The tension between the parties during the Great Depression. The parties always fought for power, but the competition was especially tense during the Great Depression. What were the moderate Democrats and left-wing clashing about? Analyze the facts about this period in politics.
• Tax reform in the Great Depression. The crash of the economy forced the tax reform. It was impossible to keep funding the relief programs with taxpayers’ money. What changes were introduced to help the situation? Express your opinion on the effectiveness of the tax reform in the 1930s.
• Political initiatives during the Great Depression vs. Black communities. The African American community of activists was small but mighty, thanks to the newly found supporters in political circles. Look into the agendas and most significant actions of these communities to see what changes they made.
• Washington Commonwealth Federation and the Great Depression. The Washington Commonwealth Federation wasn’t a powerhouse, but it was still influential. The organization supported social programs, unions, and other means of helping people. Discuss its political agenda in the Great Depression economy.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) was the true leader of the American nation through the tough years of the Great Depression. Check out the list of topics for a research paper on his presidency:

• Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s support team through the Great Depression. FDR was a very confident and devoted president. In his speeches, he promised to fix all of the country’s financial issues. But who was standing behind his actions? Research this question to find out about FDR’s trusted advisors.
• FDR as the perfect president of his era: “fireside chats” example. “Keep calm” is the most common tip people hear when rough times hit. However, President Roosevelt took it to a new level with his radio “fireside chats.” Doesn’t it feel like a thought-through strategy? Discuss this question in your paper.
• The reasons why Roosevelt’s New Deal failed. The New Deal might have looked like it would be a miraculous savior during the Great Depression, but it didn’t work. Look into this case and describe why it was World War II and not the New Deal that relieved the Great Depression.
• FDR’s politics before and after polio. Franklin Roosevelt became a victim of polio when he was 39. He survived but had motor issues since then. Can you notice any changes in his political views or personality? Conduct your research and use available records to support your idea.
• “Packing the court” as Roosevelt’s failed trick. In 1937, FDR tried to win more support by adding justices to the US Supreme Court who favored the New Deal. Why did his plan fail? Find strong arguments to support your thoughts.
• The 1930s and 1940s: The Great Depression and Its Aftermath
• African American Life During the Great Depression
• The Canadian Government’s Economic Policies in Response to the Great Depression
• How Great Britain, France, and the United States Responded to the Great Depression
• Reparations, Deficits, and Debt Default: The Great Depression in Germany
• The Great Depression: America’s Biggest Financial Collapse in Economic History
• Economic Events That Lead up to the Great Depression
• The Development of the Mining Industry in Cyprus During the Great Depression
• Progressive Era Through the Great Depression
• Nazi Persecution During the Great Depression and World War I
• Financial Collapse and Active Monetary Policy: A Lesson From the Great Depression
• Births, Deaths, and New Deal Relief During the Great Depression
• How the Two World Wars and the Great Depression Affected the Lives of Americans
• Poor Living Conditions and Poor Health Greeted Americans in the Great Depression
• Employment, Politics, and Economic Recovery During the Great Depression
• Credit Relationships and Business Bankruptcy During the Great Depression
• Money and Interest Rates in the United States During the Great Depression
• Hopeless and Homeless: The Despair of the Great Depression
• Agricultural Crises and the International Transmission of the Great Depression
• Europe’s Great Depression: Coordination Failure After the First World War
• How President Roosevelt Combated the Great Depression

The Great Depression was a terrible time for Americans, no doubt. Still, we have learned valuable lessons from it. If you want to look into them, check out the following topics:

• Preparing for another Great Depression: financial adviser’s point of view. In 2024, the economy is slowly crumbling, and Americans can see the signs of the Great Depression repeating itself. If you were a financial adviser, what would you recommend to do to get ready?
• Avoiding debt as the ultimate lesson from the Great Depression. One of the main reasons people suffered so much during the Great Depression was because debt became a new norm. Can Americans avoid financial issues if they pay off existing debts and avoid acquiring new ones? Discuss this idea in your paper.
• Budgeting not only for people with low income. Many Americans lost their jobs in the Great Depression without thinking about how much they spent every month. Is it wise to track every dollar spent, even when you have a good job? Express your opinion and add solid arguments.
• The best time to invest is now. Allegedly, J.F. Kennedy was one of those who reinvested in the market after the crash in 1929. It made him many times richer. Using the Great Depression as an example, research all the financial aspects and benefits of investing in the markets.
• Giving up going out to survive a financial crisis. Nowadays, people can only feel comfortable with being entertained 24/7, and they pay a lot to keep it this way. What if picking a low-cost option could be one of the most brilliant financial moves? Discuss cutting the entertainment budget to be financially responsible in tough times.

Everything changed for Americans during the Great Depression, even culture and leisure. Average citizens couldn’t afford extravagant things, so free or low-cost entertainment was the way to go.

Find the best topics on American culture of that era below:

• Fashion of the Great Depression. Synthetic fabric was invented during the 1930s. It was extremely convenient because it was cheap, easy to maintain, and practical. How much did fashion change with the invention of synthetic fabric?
• Monopoly as the most influential cultural change since the 1930s. Board games and puzzles replaced expensive entertainment for people struggling with an economic crisis. Monopoly’s way to the international market and its influence on modern culture can be an excellent essay topic.
• The effects of the Great Depression on baseball. Like most Americans, baseball players went through paycheck cuts in the 1930s. What happened to the game’s fanbase? Express your opinion on how baseball changed in the 1930s and how it influenced Americans.
• Culture after the end of the Prohibition. Since Prohibition ended in the 1930s, bars became the new favorite place for Americans to unwind. Nightclubs were a place of culture with music, dancing, and fashion. In your paper, analyze what role Prohibition’s end played in the American entertainment system.
• Culture over politics: how radio and Hollywood prioritized entertainment in the 1930s. Many people believed that movies and radio should be used to influence the political views of Americans. Instead, Hollywood became the powerhouse of the entertainment industry. Can you explain why, back then, entertainment was prioritized over indoctrinating?
• Can Great Depression Theories Explain the Great Recession?
• Did American Welfare Capitalists Breach Their Implicit Contracts During the Great Depression?
• Could the FED Have Prevented the Great Depression?
• Did Bank Distress Stifle Innovation During the Great Depression?
• Was Debt Deflation Operative During the Great Depression?
• Could the Great Depression Be Described as a Time of Desperation?
• Did France Cause the Great Depression?
• How Did America Recover From the Great Depression?
• Was the Great Depression a Watershed for American Monetary Policy?
• Did Hayek and Robbins Deepen the Great Depression?
• How Did Demographics Cause the Great Depression?
• Was the Great Depression to Blame for the Success of the Nazi Party?
• Did International Economic Forces Cause the Great Depression?
• How Did Governments Deal With Problems Caused by the Great Depression?
• What Are the Differences Between the Causes of the Great Depression and the 2008 Financial Crisis?
• Did Korekiyo Takahashi Rescue Japan From the Great Depression?
• How Did the Great Depression Completely Destroy America?
• What Are the Real Reasons Behind the Great Depression in America?
• Did the Canadian Government Do Enough During the Great Depression?
• How Did the Great Depression Weaken Western Democracies?
• Did the Great Depression Affect Educational Attainment in the US?
• What Was America Like During the Great Depression?
• How Does the Current Global Economic Recession Compare to the Great Depression?
• Did the New Deal Prolong or Worsen the Great Depression?
• How Did the Great Depression Affect African Americans?

Multiple things went wrong after the stock market crash that led to the Great Depression. Banking failures were among them. Explore this essential aspect of the financial crisis with the help of our topics:

• Contagion-induced bank runs as the cause of bank failures in the 1930s. Contagion refers to the spread of economic issues from one bank to another. Eventually, it can ruin the entire economy of a country and beyond. Can contagion be the main reason for a mass bank failure?
• Federal deposit insurance and the Great Depression banking failures. Federal deposit insurance was introduced in the 1930s as a preventative measure, but banking failures were still widespread. Research this issue and add good arguments to support your thoughts.
• Industrial shakeouts and Great Depression Banking Failures. As a typical event in other industries, industrial shakeouts are also blamed for banking failures in the 1930s. Look into this issue and find reliable sources to prove the idea.
• Where did Americans’ life savings go after bank failures in the Great Depression? Most citizens were left with nothing after the bank failures in the 1930s. In your paper, you can try to explain why their deposits disappeared from the perspective of a financial advisor.
• Banking failures in the Great Depression vs. the 21st century. In the 21st century, there have been over 500 bank failures. Are the reasons for bank failures in the 1930s the same as today? Compare them and remember to include reliable sources.

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StudyCorgi. (2022, June 5). 122 Great Depression Research Topics & Essay Titles. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/great-depression-essay-topics/

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StudyCorgi . 2022. "122 Great Depression Research Topics & Essay Titles." June 5, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/great-depression-essay-topics/.

These essay examples and topics on Great Depression were carefully selected by the StudyCorgi editorial team. They meet our highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, and fact accuracy. Please ensure you properly reference the materials if you’re using them to write your assignment.

This essay topic collection was updated on November 5, 2024 .

The Great Depression - List of Essay Samples And Topic Ideas

The Great Depression was a severe worldwide economic depression that took place during the 1930s, profoundly affecting many countries. Essays on the Great Depression could explore its causes, such as the stock market crash of 1929, its impact on people’s lives, and the political and social repercussions. Moreover, discussions might extend to the measures taken to alleviate the depression and the lessons learned in economic policy and financial regulation, comparing it to other economic downturns. We have collected a large number of free essay examples about The Great Depression you can find at PapersOwl Website. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

Why was Herbert Hoover Blamed for the Great Depression?

President Herbert Hoover is often blamed for the great depression for many reasons, he had ideas put into place that were meant to aid the problems in the economy but hurt it instead. Pro-labour policies made by President Hoover after the stock market crash of 1929 caused the majority of the nation's gross domestic product to decline over the next two years. This made what could have been a bad recession turn into the Great Depression. There were many reasons […]

How the Great Depression Affected African Americans

In the 1920s, African Americans were looked upon as lower class individuals and as a result, had very low paying jobs. Now, just imagine an economic crisis in such a situation. It will be chaotic. Unfortunately, an economic crisis did hit, and many African Americans lost their jobs, to leave the jobs for the white Americans. This economic crisis, plus the racial inequality African Americans faced caused a great depression amongst African Americans, which affected them till 1960. During this […]

Great Depression Vs. Great Recession

Both the Great Depression and the Great Recession were major events that have occurred in the United States economy that have had lasting effects on the country and other countries around the world. But these events were necessarily good ones. They were two of the greatest crises in American economic history. The Great Depression was first, occurring from 1929 to1939. The Great Recession happened many decades in the future, starting in late 2007 and ending in early 2010. Comparison of […]

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What was the Great Depression?

The Great Depression was a dramatic shift in the US economy leaving people homeless and people didn't have a way to make a living. .This made the government create new programs called the New Deal it however failed to stop the Great Depression and these programs wasted a lot of money..The Great Depression started in 1929 it was the biggest economic downfall in US History it left a lot people without jobs and banks started going out of business all […]

Causes of the Great Depression (1929-1939)

During the Great Depression, Franklin D.Roosevelt stated, "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself." As World War I ended and the 1920's boom in the industry deteriorated, the Great Depression developed and the result was dreadful. The crash affected millions of people and lasted for about a decade. United States was in a state of despair, as banking systems failed, many people were unemployed, and prices drastically fell. War-producing factories shut down, farms/homes were lost to possession […]

Hitler’s Rise to Power in History

After Germany’s defeat in World War 1, the powerful countries of, the United States, Great Britain, France and other allies created the Treaty of Versailles, which forced hard terms on Germany. Being under the risk of invasion, Germany had no choice but to sign the treaty, taking full responsibility for the war and accepting the terms which included, large reparations, limited military, and giving up territory to neighboring countries. Restrictions would lead Germany into an economic crisis that would only […]

Effects of the Great Depression on Life of Americans

The Great Depression is a major event in American history impacted the lives of many Americans and others around the World. Following World War I, the Great Depression brought pain, confusion, and suffering to a countless amount of Americans lives. Any hope Americans had at the time was lost because of this tragic event. Unfortunately, all workers at this time no longer could feel comfortable with the economy around them. Essentially, the economy was ruined and created chaos across America. […]

What Ended the Great Depression?

The Great Depression had a devastating impact on the nation, spreading across the countryside and bringing hardship to big cities and small towns. No social, racial, or economic class was excluded. At the depth of the depression, in 1933: 13 million people were unemployed, 50% percent of the banks had foreclosed, national income fell by 42% and one million people were homeless. There were multiple reasons the depression occurred. The series of factors that caused this event were the 1929 […]

The Aftermath and Effects of World War II on the United States

Despite the overall ending of World War II, the effects of the war brought both positive and negative changes to the United States. These changes included different economic, political, and social aspects that transformed America into all that it is today, and whether or not these changes where positive or negative, both are truly important to the history of the United States of America. According to the textbook, some of the positive changes that World War II brought to the […]

Government Response to the Great Depression

Black Tuesday was the start of the depression. Also, Herbert Hoover did not want to give the people federal money. He thought they had to get themselves out of the problem. This made many people go homeless and plus the Dust Bowl which also destroyed people's homes. The Great Depression was defined as a dark age in the 1930's. Although, there are causes that made the Great Depression happen, like the farm industry failing, low income families, and lastly World […]

What was the Great Depression and why did it Start in the USA

There are many significant events that have shaped America’s history. Some were infamous, some scandalous and some we choose to overlook..According to the PBS film “The Great Depression”, The Great Depression was one of the most traumatic and gut wrenching event throughout history. This film outline the events leading up to the great depression and highlights some of the significant events during this time period. The Great Depression was an economic downturn that began in 1929 while president Herbert Hoover […]

Great Depression: what Happened, Causes, how it Ended

During the 1930s. America went through one of the worst economic declines in world history, The Great Depression. Many believe it was sole because of the stock market crash, however other factors played a huge role in causing the Great Depression to occur. Bank failures, the Smoot-Hawley Tariff in the 1930s, and weather conditions from the Dust Bowl all played a critical factor in influencing this economic depression within America. Throughout America's history, much examination has been placed in the […]

The Great Depression and John Steinbeck

John Steinbeck is one of Americans best selling author. Steinbeck has wrote over 25 books throughout his writing career. Steinbeck traveled around the world to get ideas for his books. He mainly wrote about what it was like to live in the Great Depression and about American life in the 20’s. He wrote about his personal life and the life around him during the Dust Bowl and one of the worst times in American history. The Great Depression started right […]

Unemployment during the Great Depression

The stock market crash all started on black tuesday on october 24, 1929. During Black Tuesday 16,410,030 shares on the New York stock were traded in a single day. Billions of dollars were lost, wiping out thousands of investors. Tons of machines controlling the trades were shut down due to the tremendous amounts of share trades. Due to Black Tuesday, America as well as the industrial world to spiral down into what is known as the Great Depression. After this […]

Male Workers during the Great Depression

When the crisis broke out in 1929 the men's labor movement does not have solid organizations that allow it to react quickly to the effects of the financial crack and pay the consequences. It will be from 1933 that the lethargy of the male working class breaks down and a stage of great strikes and struggles begins. This resuscitation coincides, in part, with the sanction of the National Recovery Act. It contained a clause that recognized male workers' right to […]

Economic Recovery in the Great Depression

The Nineteen Twenties proved to be a great decade for America. The end of the Great War marked the end of many world powers and weakened many other countries. However, amidst of this chaos, the stage was set for America to become a superpower and prosper greatly throughout the decade"just to break down and enter a longest-lasting economic downturn the country has ever seen. This would affect the lives of a lot of people as unemployment, suicide rates and death […]

Great Depression: Causes and Definition

The Great Depression was the worst economic problem in the history of the world, from 1929 to 1939. It caused many problem and difficulty like, Overproduction, Big crash, weak banking systems, and buying on margins. The Great Depression made everyone forget about the wealth, growth and prosperity of last period of ten years and face new economically unfair conditions of business and living in a bad situation. The government should’ve involve more in the Great Depression to help people and […]

Causes of the Great Depression and the Lasting Impacts

Abstract This paper discusses the causes of the Great Depression and the lasting impacts it had on the U.S. Many people attribute the sole cause of the Great of Depression to the stock market crash of 1929 but there are actually multiple contributing factor. The stock market crash propelled the Great Depression forward but many other causes contributed to the length and depth. Keywords: Great Depression, Stock Market The 1920's were a time of low unemployment, mass production of goods, […]

Roosevelt, the Great Depression, and the Economics of Recovery

The Great Depression hit America like a whirlwind during the 1930'. It hit with a force like no other. Its' impact was nothing short of devastating in all aspects of American life. This was a time of extreme poverty, unemployment, homelessness and overall social unrest. Every American in every town and city was greatly impacted by the crash of the stock market which in turn led to a complete nose dive of the economy. This prompted an increased number of […]

The History of the Great Depression

The Great Depression was a severe worldwide economic depression starting in 1929 ending in 1941. The Great Depression started with numerous types of things. The economic conditions that led to the Great Depression began in the early 1920s, this was said by, Jennifer Croft in her article called, "Facts About The Great Depression." It started by the crash of stock markets, drought (The Dust Bowl), overproduction of goods, bank failures, Stock speculation, and consumer debt. After this lasting for about […]

Effects the Great Depression on African Americans

From the economic crisis in the 1930s to now, our country has developed greatly in medicine, technology, art, military weapons, and laws. However, since then prejudices are still apparent and people’s mindsets have stayed relatively the same from those of 100 years ago and are not open-minded like the development of medicine and weapons. The Great Depression impacted African Americans immensely in comparison to the white working class and farmers. Middle and lower class women being paid less compared to […]

Great Depression in the United States

The Great depression was a time when America could not see the future and felt doubtful about the future to come. This was the worst economic downfall in the history of the United States. The Depression started in 1929 and happened to end in the end of 1930. More than a third of the nation's banks had failed and this caused the major stock market to come crashing down. The Great Depression was horrifying for many Americans because of its […]

Gender Roles during the Great Depression and the Cold War

A role or behavior learned by a person as appropriate to their gender which is determined by the prevailing cultural norms is called a gender role. Both men and women have been told how to behave, dress, and even present themselves to the public. An example of gender roles in society is women are supposed to be feminine, graceful, polite, nurturing, emotional, take care of kids, cook, clean; while men are supposed to be muscular, aggressive, tall, take care of […]

Argentina and the Great Depression

From 1860 to 1930, Argentina was viewed as one of the wealthiest nations on the planet. Argentina had an enormous residential which shaped a ton of speculations and enabled the economy to be modernized with the advancement of nearby industries. During this time, Argentina's economy was firmly tied with the British economy in view of Argentina fares and imports of fine yields. A portion of their enterprises was; sustenance preparing, meat pressing, flour processing, and calfskin tanning everything that helped […]

The Economy of the Great Depression

The United States has faced quite a few depressions every 20 or so years. At the end of the 1920’s the United States had a thriving economy until the Great Depression hit in 1929. The Great Depression was the most severe and longest ever experienced by the industrialized western world. This depression occurred between 1929 and 1939 resulting from a time of major economic decline, bank failures, reduction in purchasing, and the drought conditions. Before the depression, profits for businesses […]

America’s Great Depression and Roosevelt’s New Deal

The Great Depression led to one of the greatest economic downfalls in United States history and some of the economic causes that led to the Great Depression included bank failures, the Stock Market Crash of 1929, and the Dust Bowl. A total of 56,670 banks failed from the years 1930-1932. The number of bank failures decreased as the years went on. Most of these banks were smaller side (Chapter 21). During this time, customers lost most if not all of […]

The Causes of the Great Depression

Imagine losing all your money in a blink of an eye after it being flowing into your pocket rapidly in the last period and then you either have to depend on others or sell what you have and stand in long lines for food. This is what happened to average families during the greatest economic downturn in the history of the U.S. Before the great depression the U.S was advancing exponentially during what was called the Roaring Twenties(Ellen Parson,2002). The […]

Herbert Hoover’s Presidency: Navigating through the Storm of the Great Depression

Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States, often finds himself eclipsed by the significant impact of the Great Depression. The current era of unparalleled economic upheaval has significantly influenced the course of history. Herbert Hoover, a professional engineer and successful entrepreneur, became the presidency in 1929 during the economic turmoil that plagued the United States. The scholarly community has engaged in extensive historical discourse over his reaction to the Great Depression. A comprehensive comprehension of Hoover's actions necessitates […]

How did the Great Depression Lead to WW2

Imagine a world gripped by economic despair, where hope seems like a distant dream and the common man struggles to see the light at the end of the tunnel. The 1920s, often glamorized as the age of jazz and prosperity, suddenly gave way to the harsh realities of the 1930s: The Great Depression. As families across the globe grappled with unemployment and hunger, a more sinister wave was taking shape in the form of political upheavals and rising dictatorships. But […]

Great Depression and how it Affected America

The great depression was, and still is to this day, one of the worst economic disasters to affect the world in all of history. The great depression was caused by a few things. One of the leading reasons that led to the great depression was the stock market crash of 1929. The stock market crash of 1929 caused millions of investors and even business to lose a ridiculous amount of money. The impact of the stock market crash caused severely […]

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How To Write an Essay About The Great Depression

Understanding the great depression.

Before starting an essay on the Great Depression, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of this significant historical event. The Great Depression was a severe worldwide economic downturn that took place during the 1930s. It began after the stock market crash of October 1929, which sent Wall Street into panic and wiped out millions of investors. The depression had devastating effects in countries both rich and poor. Begin your essay by outlining the key events that led to the Great Depression, including the stock market crash, bank failures, and reduction in purchasing across the board. Additionally, discuss the global impact of the depression, as it was not limited to the United States but affected economies worldwide.

Developing a Thesis Statement

A strong essay on the Great Depression should be centered around a clear, concise thesis statement. This statement should present a specific viewpoint or argument about the Great Depression. For instance, you might analyze the causes of the Great Depression, its impact on a particular sector of society, or the effectiveness of the responses by governments. Your thesis will guide the direction of your essay and ensure a structured and coherent analysis.

Gathering Historical Evidence

To support your thesis, gather historical evidence from credible sources. This may include economic data, personal accounts, government policies, and historical analyses. For example, if discussing the impact on agriculture, you might use statistics about farm foreclosures or personal narratives from farmers. Analyze this evidence critically, considering the context and the source's reliability.

Analyzing the Impact of The Great Depression

Dedicate a section of your essay to analyzing the impact of the Great Depression. Discuss the widespread unemployment, the collapse of financial institutions, and the human toll it took on society. Consider the long-term effects, such as changes in government policy, shifts in economic theory, and how it shaped subsequent generations' attitudes toward money and banking.

Concluding the Essay

Conclude your essay by summarizing the main points of your discussion and restating your thesis in light of the evidence presented. Your conclusion should tie together your analysis and emphasize the significance of understanding the Great Depression in the context of both historical and modern economic understanding. You might also want to reflect on the lessons learned from the Great Depression and their relevance to contemporary economic challenges.

Reviewing and Refining Your Essay

After completing your essay, take the time to review and refine it. Ensure that your arguments are clearly articulated and supported by evidence. Check for grammatical accuracy and ensure that your essay flows logically from one point to the next. Consider seeking feedback from peers, teachers, or historians to further refine your essay. A well-written essay on the Great Depression will not only demonstrate your understanding of this pivotal period in history but also your ability to engage critically with economic and historical narratives.

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Home — Essay Samples — History — Great Depression — The Great Depression: Causes, Effects, and Lessons Learned

The Great Depression: Causes, Effects, and Lessons Learned

• Categories: Great Depression

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Published: Jan 29, 2024

Words: 763 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

Table of contents

Causes of the great depression, stock market crash of 1929, overproduction and underconsumption, bank failures and the collapse of the banking system, effects of the great depression, economic effects, social effects, political effects, references:.

• Worster, D. (1979) Dust Bowl: The Southern Plains in the 1930s
• Klein, M. (2003). The Defining Moment: The Great Depression and the American Economy in the Twentieth Century.
• Soule, G. (1996). The Greatest American Bank Robbery: The Collapse of the Savings and Loan Industry.

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Cause and Effects of The Great Depression

Introduction, causes of the depression, effects of the depression, reference list.

The great Depression took place in America during the 1920s and its effects were unprecedented as it caused poverty and suffering upon the society.

Many believe that that the depression was caused by the U.S. stock-market crash that took place in 1929. Nonetheless, there is no consensus on its cause as other factors are also acceptable. The economic devastation of the 1920s led to the Great Depression and brought a tragedy for the whole society.

Many causes have been put forward to explain the causes of the great Depression over which the economists have disagreed. However, one thing that cannot be disputed is that the Depression had major impacts upon the country and the lives of people.

Crash of stock market

The crash of the stock market in 1929 ushered in the Great Depression. The capital in America was represented by stocks. There were easy-money policies that caused the stocks prices to go very high and this led to a big speculation that made people invest all their money in the stock market.

Eventually, the price of the stocks went down sharply and people started selling their stocks in panic. The number of stocks available for sale was higher that the number of people willing to buy and eventually the market crashed (Great Depression, 2008).

Uneven distribution of prosperity

The 1920s saw the American economy rise but the prosperity was unevenly distributed and the farmers as well as the untrained laborers were largely excluded. It therefore led to the nation having a greater production capacity and could not match in consuming the products.

Moreover, the policies of the Republican administration in regards to war-debts and tariff had led to a decline in market for the American goods (Great Depression, 2008).

The effects of the Great Depression were felt both at home and abroad. No one escaped its reeling effects. For example, countries in Europe were affected greatly as their economies were hit hard. In Germany, the economic blow led to social dislocation that is alleged to have played a major role bringing Adolf Hitler to power (Great Depression, 2008).

Unemployment

When the Great Depression set in many people lost their jobs. The unemployment levels rose as many factories closed and up to about 16 million people had lost their jobs between 1932 and 1933 (Great Depression, 2008). The Great Depression compares to the economic recession that took place in 2007 in American and its effects felt on a global scale.

For instance, the following words by president Obama show the similarities “Even though economists may say the recession officially ended last year, obviously for the millions of people who are still out of work… it’s still very real for them” (Hill, 2010).

Massive poverty

Consequently, job losses and loss of money in the stock market the people fell into massive levels of poverty. The people did not have a source of income and suffered a great deal. The country’s economy suffered too” The gross national product declined from the 1929 figure of $103,828,000,000 to $55,760,000,000 in 1933” (Great Depression, 2008, par. 2).

The suffering led economic hardships as well as physical, emotional, emotional and cognitive sufferings to the people because the Depression was a big tragedy hence they exhibited signs that people going through other crises exhibit (Barr, 2005).

The Great Depression led to untold suffering to millions of Americans as well as the devastation of the country’s economy. The effects extended to other countries as well due to international trade just as it happened during the recent economic down turn. No country is in isolation and its activities affect other countries too even if they do not have a hand in causing the problems.

It therefore follows that countries must take precautions to prevent an event like the Great Depression by learning its causes as well as its effects in order to minimize future damage or suffering in case of a similar tragedy.

Barr, J.G. (2005). Predicting and Managing Crisis Behavior.

Great Depression. (2008). Retrieved from EBSCOhost database.

Hill, P. (2010). Recession over a year, but recovery not felt . The Washington Times . P1, 1. Web.

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IvyPanda. (2018, May 23). Cause and Effects of The Great Depression. https://ivypanda.com/essays/cause-and-effects-of-the-great-depression/

"Cause and Effects of The Great Depression." IvyPanda , 23 May 2018, ivypanda.com/essays/cause-and-effects-of-the-great-depression/.

IvyPanda . (2018) 'Cause and Effects of The Great Depression'. 23 May.

IvyPanda . 2018. "Cause and Effects of The Great Depression." May 23, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/cause-and-effects-of-the-great-depression/.

1. IvyPanda . "Cause and Effects of The Great Depression." May 23, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/cause-and-effects-of-the-great-depression/.

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