Social Effects of the Depression Flashcards
How was the USA ill equipped to handle unemployment?
There was no federal unemployment benefit
Who was blamed for unemployment amongst able bodied people and what impact did this have?
The able bodied people saw unemployment as their own fault which was important as the psychological effects were devastating
How were marriages, birth rates and suicide rates affected by the Depression?
The number of marriages and birth decreased during the depression while the number of suicides raised
Who provided the majority of poor relief in America?
Charities provided most poor relief in America
How were the elderly affected by the Depression?
Only 11 states had a pension scheme and only 1,000 elderly people were aided
What impact did the Depression have on charities and state incomes?
Charities were running out of funds when they most needed it, and because less people would pay taxes states were earning less as well
What happened in Arkansas for the state to try and save money?
Schools were closed for 11 months and teachers were not paid for this whole period
What happened to Michigan’s relief funds?
The fund was reduced from $2 million to $832,000
What did Fortune magazine estimate in regards to how many people received an income?
28% of the population were receiving an income (this did not include farm workers)
What was the greatest tragedy of the Depression?
People were going hungary as food prices was so little that it wasn’t worth harvesting, this led to wheat rotting in fields while people were starving
What happened to wheat, cattle and sheep across America?
Wheat would rot in the field and after sheep/cattle were slaughtered they were left for the buzzards
In Chicago, how much relief were children and adults given per week?
$2.40 for adults and $1.50 for children per week as the total fund was only $100,000
What happened to levels of gangsterism and crime during the Depression?
The rate of crime and gangsterism increased during the depression
What role were outlaws seen to take in the South and Midwest?
Outlaw gangs would rob banks in the south and midwest which made life much worse for farmers
Who did the Clyde Barrow Gang target?
General stores and gas stations
