Economic Downturn And Recovery

Question 1

What event caused an economic depression in America in October 1929?

Answer 1

Wall Street Crash

This event marked the beginning of a significant economic downturn in the United States.

Question 2

What was the unemployment rate in the US by the end of 1929?

Answer 2

2.5 million

This figure dramatically increased in the following years.

Question 3

How many people were unemployed in the US by 1932?

Answer 3

13 million

This represents a significant rise in unemployment during the Great Depression.

Question 4

What percentage of Black workers were unemployed in 1933?

Answer 4

50%

This was significantly higher compared to white unemployment rates during the same year.

Question 5

What nickname was given to makeshift homes set up by the unemployed?

Answer 5

Hoovervilles

This name was used to mock President Hoover during the Great Depression.

Question 6

What term was used for individuals who drifted across the country looking for work?

Answer 6

Hobos

By 1932, there were approximately 2 million hobos in search of employment.

Question 7

Which states were most affected by the drought in 1931?

Answer 7

Oklahoma, New Mexico, Kansas

Poor farming practices exacerbated the effects of the drought.

Question 8

What were the names given to farmers who left Oklahoma and Arkansas in search of work?

Answer 8

Okies (from Oklahoma) & Arkies (from Arkansas)

These terms were used to describe migrants during the Great Depression.

Question 9

By 1932, what percentage of the population received no income?

Answer 9

25%

This statistic highlights the severity of the economic crisis.

Question 10

What action did 12,000 veterans take in 1932?

Answer 10

Marched to Washington DC for early bonus payment

This march was met with military intervention and resulted in casualties.

Question 11

What was the slogan reflecting public sentiment towards Hoover during the Great Depression?

Answer 11

In Hoover we trusted… now we are busted

This slogan captures the disillusionment with Hoover’s leadership.

Question 12

What economic policies did Hoover adhere to during the Great Depression?

Answer 12

Rugged Individualism & Laissez-Faire

These policies emphasized minimal government intervention.

Question 13

What was the purpose of the Hawley-Smoot Tariff Act of 1930?

Answer 13

Increased import duties

This act aimed to protect American industry but led to retaliation from other countries.

Question 14

What was the New Deal based on?

Answer 14

The 3 R’s: Relief, Recovery, Reform

The New Deal aimed to address the economic crisis and restore the economy.

Question 15

What was the significance of the First Hundred Days of Roosevelt’s presidency?

Answer 15

Period of intense legislative activity

This period included significant reforms aimed at economic recovery.

Question 16

What was FERA and what did it provide?

Answer 16

Federal Emergency Relief Administration; $500 million for unemployed

This was one of the key programs created under the New Deal.

Question 17

What did the NRA aim to establish?

Answer 17

Fair prices, wages, and working conditions

The NRA was symbolized by the blue eagle.

Question 18

What was the outcome of the Sick Chickens Case in 1935?

Answer 18

Found NIRA illegal

This ruling represented a setback for New Deal legislation.

Question 19

What was FDR’s attempt regarding the Supreme Court in 1937?

Answer 19

Retire judges over 70 years old

This attempt was deemed unconstitutional and damaged FDR’s reputation.

Question 20

What was the suicide rate at its peak by 1932?

Answer 20

17.4 per 1000 people

This statistic underscores the mental health crisis during the Great Depression.

Question 21

What was a significant social impact of the Great Depression on marriages?

Answer 21

Fell by almost 250,000 by 1932

Economic hardship influenced personal decisions and family structures.