Untitled Flashcards Set

Black Tuesday

October 29, 1929; the day the stock market crashed, leading to the Great Depression.

Causes of the Great Depression

Dependence on few industries, poor purchasing power, excessive credit, and declining European demand.

Progress of the Depression

Stock market collapse led to bankrupt banks, decreasing money supply, lowered purchasing power, and layoffs.

Unemployment during the Great Depression

Estimated at 25% or more in 1932, averaging 20% throughout the 1930s; some cities faced even higher rates.

Dust Bowl

A severe drought in the 1930s causing millions of acres of farmland to dry up and create dust storms.

Scottsboro Case

In 1931, nine black teenagers were falsely accused of rape and convicted by an all-white jury.

Impact of the Depression on Families

Women adapted by taking on various jobs, while families often experienced informal breakups but gained strength in unity.

Dale Carnegie

Author of 'How to Win Friends and Influence People,' promoting individual initiative.

John Steinbeck

Author of 'The Grapes of Wrath,' detailing the struggles of a family migrating to California.

Fireside Chats

FDR's informal radio broadcasts explaining his plans and reassuring the American public.

Bank Holiday

FDR's order to close all banks for four days to examine their solvency before reopening.

Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA)

Government subsidies for farmers to compensate for reduced production; struck down by the Supreme Court in 1936.

National Recovery Administration (NRA)

Government's involvement in regulating industries to stimulate economic recovery.

Securities and Exchange Commission

Government agency established to police and regulate the stock market.

Civil Works Administration (CWA)

Employment program allowing people to work for government payments during the Depression.

Keynesian Economics

Philosophy advocating government spending as a remedy for economic stagnation.

Social Security Act

1935 legislation that provided financial support for the elderly, disabled, unemployed, and dependent children.

Isolationism

America's tendency to avoid international involvement and reduce global responsibilities.

Kellogg-Briand Pact

Agreement among fourteen nations to outlaw war, lacking enforcement provisions.

Berlin Blitzkrieg

Sudden and overwhelming attacks by German forces during World War II.

Lend-Lease

U.S. program providing military aid to Britain and later, Russia during WWII.