Stories from the Great Depression
US National Archives・2 minutes read
President Roosevelt addressed Americans during the Great Depression, emphasizing immediate action with 15 government measures to address unemployment and stabilize the economy. The Works Progress Administration (WPA) aimed to alleviate unemployment, while personal stories highlighted the challenges faced, and iconic images captured the struggles of Americans during that era.
Insights
- President Franklin D. Roosevelt took swift action during the Great Depression, implementing 15 government measures in his first 100 days to combat unemployment and stabilize the economy, including the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
- Personal stories and documentation from the era, such as the photographs by Dorothea Lange and Gordon Parks, provide a vivid and lasting portrayal of the hardships faced by American families during the Great Depression, highlighting the resilience and challenges of that period.
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Summary
00:00
Roosevelt's Hope: Addressing the Great Depression
- In 1933, Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed Americans during the Great Depression, offering hope amidst economic hardships.
- By March 4th, 1933, all banks had closed, leading to a severe economic crisis with a quarter of the labor force unemployed.
- President Roosevelt emphasized immediate action during his inaugural speech, launching 15 government measures in the first 100 days to address unemployment, crop prices, and stabilize the economy.
- The Works Progress Administration (WPA) was a key initiative, aiming to alleviate unemployment and support the American workforce.
- Many families struggled during the Depression, with some finding work in places like Tehachapi and the Roman state prison.
- The Depression led to widespread poverty, with families relying on charity and odd jobs to survive.
- Blackberries were a common free food source during the Depression, used to make simple dishes like blackberry cobbler.
- Families like the McSweeneys in San Francisco faced financial struggles, relying on charity and witnessing the impact of the Depression on their community.
- Personal stories from individuals like grandparents and parents highlighted the challenges faced during the Depression, including lack of clothing and food scarcity.
- Despite the hardships, families found solace in entertainment like radio broadcasts and movies, reminiscing about the positive aspects of their childhood during the era.
19:37
"Roosevelt's Death, FSA Photos, Archives History"
- President Roosevelt passed away on April 12, 1945, at his Little White House in Warm Springs, Georgia, at 4:35 PM Eastern time, leaving a significant impact on the nation.
- The Farm Security Administration, during the 1930s and early 1940s, employed photographers like Dorothea Lange and Gordon Parks to document the struggles of Americans during the Great Depression, creating iconic images that have become a visual representation of that era.
- The National Archives in Atlanta, Georgia, houses thousands of original records that document the settlement and development of the southeast, offering a unique opportunity for individuals to explore their history and connect with significant historical figures and events.
