1. Overview of the Great Depression
A severe economic downturn that began with the 1929 stock market crash and lasted through the 1930s.
Key Events
- Black Thursday (October 24, 1929) - Stock market crash
- Social Security Act introduction (1935)
- Implementation of Roosevelt's New Deal
2. Causes of the Great Depression
Multiple factors contributed to the economic collapse:
- Agricultural overproduction due to technological advances
- Excessive consumer credit and debt
- Banking system failures (over 10,000 banks collapsed)
- World War I allied debts affecting U.S. economy
3. Social Impact
Economic Statistics
| Factor |
Impact |
| Unemployment Rate |
20% |
| Number of Unemployed |
12 million Americans |
| Bank Failures |
Over 10,000 |
Social Consequences
- Widespread poverty and hunger
- Reliance on soup kitchens
- Loss of dignity and social status
- Disproportionate impact on women and minorities