The Great Depression and New Deal

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key terms and concepts from the Great Depression and New Deal era.

Black Tuesday

October 29, 1929 — the day the U.S. stock market crashed, marking the beginning of the Great Depression.

Great Depression

A severe worldwide economic downturn lasting from 1929 through the 1930s, causing massive unemployment and poverty.

Hawley-Smoot Tariff of 1930

A U.S. law that raised tariffs on imported goods, worsening the global depression by reducing international trade.

Bank Failure

When a bank cannot meet its financial obligations and closes, resulting in loss of savings for many during the early 1930s.

Dust Bowl

A period of severe drought and dust storms in the 1930s that destroyed farms and displaced thousands of families.

Hooverville / Shantytown

Makeshift communities of homeless people during the Great Depression, representing public frustration with the government's response.

Huey Long

Louisiana senator who proposed the 'Share Our Wealth' program, advocating for greater economic equality during FDR's presidency.

Fireside Chats

Informal radio broadcasts by FDR to communicate with the public, helping to restore confidence during the Depression.

The New Deal

A series of programs launched by FDR (1933–1939) to combat the Great Depression, expanding the role of the federal government.

Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC)

A New Deal program providing jobs for young men in environmental projects, reducing unemployment and improving public lands.

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)

Agency created in 1933 to insure bank deposits, restoring confidence in the banking system.

Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)

Established in 1934 to regulate the stock market and prevent abuses, helping restore investor confidence.

Social Security Administration (SSA)

Created in 1935 to provide financial assistance to the elderly and disabled, establishing a safety net for citizens.

Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)

New Deal program that built dams and power plants in the Tennessee Valley, providing jobs and economic development.

Works Progress Administration (WPA)

A major New Deal agency that created jobs through public works projects, employing millions and building infrastructure.

Father Charles Coughlin

A Catholic priest and radio broadcaster who criticized FDR, reflecting populist sentiment during the Great Depression.

Dr. Francis Townsend

A physician who proposed a plan for government pensions for the elderly, influencing the Social Security Act of 1935.

Eleanor Roosevelt

First Lady (1933–1945) and a political reformer who advocated for civil rights and women's rights, redefining the role of First Lady.