Impact Of The Depression Years Flashcards
What were the “heavy” or staple industries in England and Wales also known as “ailing giants”?
Coal, iron and steel, slate, shipbuilding
What was the Wall Street Crash in October 1929?
The price of shares on the USA Stock Exchange collapsed leading to America going almost “bankrupt”.
What were the effects of the Wall Street Crash?
Unemployment
The Great Depression in the USA
The Depression in Britain
When was the Depression in Britain? (which decade)
During the 1930s
How bad was unemployment during the Depression in Britain?
1932 3 million
unemployed
As high as 70% in the worst hit areas
Which areas of England and Wales were worst hit?
South Wales
North of England
What was the Means Test?
The Means Test was a test to see if unemployed people deserved dole (unemployment and sickness benefit). They had to prove that they deserved it by answering a series of questions and declaring any valuables or savings
UABs were set up to run the Means Test. What did UABs stand for?
Unemployment Assistance Boards
What was the Special Areas Act 1934?
A law brought in to try to create jobs in South Wales and Tyneside
How successful was the Special Areas Act?
It did create a small number of jobs but it did not get rid of unemployment
What did people do during the Depression to protest against unemployment?
Hunger Marches
What was the most famous hunger march?
Jarrow March 1936
What was the role of women in South Wales during the Depression?
“Making ends meet”
Which areas of England suffered less because they had lower unemployment?
The Midlands and the South East around London
What were the main “new” industries in the less affected areas?
Cars
Other consumer goods such as radios and vacuum cleaners
