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American Federation of Labor

The country's largest labor union, only opened to skilled workers. Founded in 1886 by Samuel Gompers, it focused on collective bargaining and securing better wages, hours, and working conditions.

Stock Market Crash of 1929

Plunge in stock market prices that marked the beginning of the Great Depression.

Great Depression

The economic crisis beginning with the stock market crash in 1929 and continuing through the 1930s.

Herbert Hoover

The first president of the Great Depression (1929-1933). Known for his 'too little, too late' efforts in the Great Depression.

Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR)

President during the Great Depression, from March 1933 to April 1945. He initiated the New Deal during his first Hundred Days.

Hundred Days

Congressional session lasting from March to June 1933 during FDR’s presidency.

Eleanor Roosevelt

FDR’s wife and supporter of the New Deal, civil rights, and women’s rights. She established a connection with the public through FDR’s Fireside Chats.

Dust Bowl

A drought in the 1930s that made the Great Plains dry and uninhabitable, exacerbated by poor agricultural practices.

The New Deal

A series of programs and policies established by FDR in response to the Great Depression aimed at economic recovery and social reform.

FERA (Federal Emergency Relief Program)

Provided federal money for relief projects to approximately 13 million unemployed.

PWA (Public Works Administration)

Created jobs by having people build public works like highways and bridges.

AAA (Agricultural Adjustment Administration)

Regulated farm production and promoted soil conservation.

CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps)

Hired young men to work on conservation projects like planting trees.

FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation)

Protected the money of depositors in insured banks.

NRA (National Recovery Act)

Regulated industry and raised wages and prices.

WPA (Works Project Administration)

Established national works programs to create jobs.

REA (Rural Electrification Administration)

Brought electricity to rural areas.

Wagner Act

Protected labor’s right to form unions and set up a board to hear labor disputes.

Social Security Act

Provided workers with unemployment insurance and retirement benefits.