US History

Roosevelt, the Great Depression, and the new deal

What marked the beginning of the Progressive Era?

The presidency of Theodore Roosevelt in 1902, aimed at addressing societal ills caused by monopolies.

What was Roosevelt's approach to monopolies?

He believed the government must be superior to any company, leading to trustbusting efforts.

What significant action did Roosevelt take against Standard Oil?

In 1911, he dismantled it into 34 separate companies using the Sherman Antitrust Act.

What characterized the Golden Age and the Roaring Twenties?

Economic growth and cultural change, but many groups, including women and African Americans, did not benefit equally.

What were the main causes of the Great Depression?

Long-term causes: overproduction, market saturation, and unequal wealth distribution; Short-term causes: collapse of international trade and stock market speculation; Catalyst: the Wall Street Crash of 1929.

What was the timeframe of the Great Depression?

From 1929 until 1939, marked by mass unemployment and economic decline.

How did overproduction contribute to the Great Depression?

Advances in production led to excess goods, outpacing consumer demand and resulting in layoffs and bankruptcies.

What role did unequal wealth distribution play in the Great Depression?

A small percentage of the population held a large portion of wealth, leaving many unable to afford consumer goods.

What was the Smoot-Hawley Act of 1930?

A US trade measure that raised import duties to protect American businesses, which ultimately worsened the Depression.

What was the impact of stock market speculation leading up to the Great Depression?

Investors bought stocks without understanding the market, leading to unsustainable price increases and eventual crashes.

What event is considered the catalyst for the Great Depression?

The Wall Street Stock Market Crash of 1929, which triggered widespread panic and financial collapse.

What were the social effects of the Great Depression?

Massive unemployment, rise in homelessness, and the creation of shantytowns called 'Hoovervilles'.

What were Hoovervilles?

Shantytowns built by the homeless during the Great Depression, named after President Herbert Hoover.

What conditions did people in Hoovervilles face?

Lack of running water, electricity, and sanitation, relying on soup kitchens and charitable aid for food.

How did the Great Depression affect health standards?

Health declined sharply, with increased malnutrition and diseases like tuberculosis and pneumonia.