HST 202 Module #06
Brother, Can You Spare A Dime? (1929 CE - 1939 CE)
The ten years from 1929 to 1939 in American history will forever be remembered as the Great Depression, a period of intense economic turmoil, widespread poverty, and record-breaking unemployment. But it is also a decade that bore witness to some of the most impactful political and cultural movements that have molded the fabric of our nation to this day. The struggles and triumphs of this era continue to inspire and inform us, reminding us of the power of the human spirit to endure even in the most challenging of circumstances. The Stock Market Crash of 1929, A day that would forever leave its mark on history, was a black Monday that signaled the arrival of the Great Depression. On October 29, the market plummeted like a meteor, sending shockwaves of fear and devastation throughout the land. The cruel reality was that millions of hard-earned dollars were gone instantly, leaving people to suffer the consequences of a broken system. And suffer they did, with jobless rates soaring to unimaginable heights, families forced to live in poverty, and soup kitchens becoming the only source of sustenance. The Great Depression was a dark time, a reminder of the fragility of our dreams and the harsh realities of life.
One of the most significant events of this period was the Stock Market Crash of 1929, which marked the beginning of the Great Depression. On October 29, 1929, the stock market crashed, causing widespread panic and the loss of millions of dollars in investments. People across the country were forced to live in poverty, with many relying on soup kitchens and other forms of public assistance to survive. This event was a catalyst for the economic downturn that lasted for the next decade, with unemployment rates reaching as high as 25%. During the dark days of the Great Depression, President Roosevelt stepped up to the plate with his New Deal programs. These initiatives were designed to give a much-needed boost to the struggling masses, providing jobs and support to millions of people struggling to get by. The Works Progress Administration was an absolute powerhouse, returning countless unemployed Americans to work on public projects like roads, bridges, and schools. This program made a tangible difference in the lives of millions of people, and it remains one of the defining moments of Roosevelt's presidency.
As the decade raged, the winds of change brought a tempest of biblical proportions - the Dust Bowl. The Great Plains were battered by a maelstrom of drought, over-farming, and wind erosion, leading to massive dust storms that obliterated crops and homes like a tornado of dirt and desperation. The waves of refugees fleeing the storm-ravaged land became known as the "Okies," a wandering horde of people searching for sustenance in a land that had long since gone dry. But amid all this hardship, the Dust Bowl era also saw the rise of a counterculture, a celebration of resilience and resourcefulness that defied the bleakness of their circumstances. The Okies, with their grit and determination, became symbols of the American spirit, a testament to the strength of the human soul in the face of adversity.
Amidst the trials and tribulations of the tumultuous 1930s, a cultural blaze didst arise. The Harlem Renaissance, a celebration of all that was black, of art and literature and sweet melodies, did flourish. Jazz, a genre oft-maligned, did rise like a phoenix, with legends like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington hailed as heroes of the people. The sounds of the jazz horns didst fill the air, and all who hearkened did dance to their beat.
The examination of the 1930s era is of immense significance for many reasons. Primarily, the tumultuous events of the Great Depression had a decisive effect on the economic, political, and cultural foundations of the United States. The New Deal programs and the devastating Dust Bowl were instrumental in molding the nation's approach to economic tribulations and environmental emergencies. Furthermore, the cultural and artistic advancements of the 1930s left a lasting imprint on American society and still hold sway over contemporary cultural trends. Studying this time is essential because it explains why the world and our country are the way it is and how we all managed to keep our heads up and keep going during hard times. The 10-year stretch from '29 to '39 in the Land of the Free was rough. The Great Depression was a real bummer, the Dust Bowl was a dirt storm, and poverty was all around us. But even with all that, some important things happened. Politics and culture got a shake-up, and we still feel it today.
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
The ten years from 1929 to 1939 in American history will forever be remembered as the Great Depression, a period of intense economic turmoil, widespread poverty, and record-breaking unemployment. But it is also a decade that bore witness to some of the most impactful political and cultural movements that have molded the fabric of our nation to this day. The struggles and triumphs of this era continue to inspire and inform us, reminding us of the power of the human spirit to endure even in the most challenging of circumstances. The Stock Market Crash of 1929, A day that would forever leave its mark on history, was a black Monday that signaled the arrival of the Great Depression. On October 29, the market plummeted like a meteor, sending shockwaves of fear and devastation throughout the land. The cruel reality was that millions of hard-earned dollars were gone instantly, leaving people to suffer the consequences of a broken system. And suffer they did, with jobless rates soaring to unimaginable heights, families forced to live in poverty, and soup kitchens becoming the only source of sustenance. The Great Depression was a dark time, a reminder of the fragility of our dreams and the harsh realities of life.
One of the most significant events of this period was the Stock Market Crash of 1929, which marked the beginning of the Great Depression. On October 29, 1929, the stock market crashed, causing widespread panic and the loss of millions of dollars in investments. People across the country were forced to live in poverty, with many relying on soup kitchens and other forms of public assistance to survive. This event was a catalyst for the economic downturn that lasted for the next decade, with unemployment rates reaching as high as 25%. During the dark days of the Great Depression, President Roosevelt stepped up to the plate with his New Deal programs. These initiatives were designed to give a much-needed boost to the struggling masses, providing jobs and support to millions of people struggling to get by. The Works Progress Administration was an absolute powerhouse, returning countless unemployed Americans to work on public projects like roads, bridges, and schools. This program made a tangible difference in the lives of millions of people, and it remains one of the defining moments of Roosevelt's presidency.
As the decade raged, the winds of change brought a tempest of biblical proportions - the Dust Bowl. The Great Plains were battered by a maelstrom of drought, over-farming, and wind erosion, leading to massive dust storms that obliterated crops and homes like a tornado of dirt and desperation. The waves of refugees fleeing the storm-ravaged land became known as the "Okies," a wandering horde of people searching for sustenance in a land that had long since gone dry. But amid all this hardship, the Dust Bowl era also saw the rise of a counterculture, a celebration of resilience and resourcefulness that defied the bleakness of their circumstances. The Okies, with their grit and determination, became symbols of the American spirit, a testament to the strength of the human soul in the face of adversity.
Amidst the trials and tribulations of the tumultuous 1930s, a cultural blaze didst arise. The Harlem Renaissance, a celebration of all that was black, of art and literature and sweet melodies, did flourish. Jazz, a genre oft-maligned, did rise like a phoenix, with legends like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington hailed as heroes of the people. The sounds of the jazz horns didst fill the air, and all who hearkened did dance to their beat.
The examination of the 1930s era is of immense significance for many reasons. Primarily, the tumultuous events of the Great Depression had a decisive effect on the economic, political, and cultural foundations of the United States. The New Deal programs and the devastating Dust Bowl were instrumental in molding the nation's approach to economic tribulations and environmental emergencies. Furthermore, the cultural and artistic advancements of the 1930s left a lasting imprint on American society and still hold sway over contemporary cultural trends. Studying this time is essential because it explains why the world and our country are the way it is and how we all managed to keep our heads up and keep going during hard times. The 10-year stretch from '29 to '39 in the Land of the Free was rough. The Great Depression was a real bummer, the Dust Bowl was a dirt storm, and poverty was all around us. But even with all that, some important things happened. Politics and culture got a shake-up, and we still feel it today.
THE RUNDOWN
- The decade from 1929 to 1939 in the United States was marked by the Great Depression, widespread poverty, and record-breaking unemployment.
- The Stock Market Crash of 1929 marked the beginning of the Great Depression, causing widespread panic and loss of millions of dollars in investments.
- President Roosevelt's New Deal programs, including the Works Progress Administration, provided jobs and support to millions of people struggling to get by.
- The Dust Bowl, a period of drought and wind erosion, was a devastating event in the Great Plains, but also saw the rise of a counterculture symbolizing the American spirit.
- The Harlem Renaissance was a celebration of black art and literature, and jazz became a popular genre with legends like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington.
- The events of the Great Depression and the cultural advancements of the 1930s had a lasting impact on the economic, political, and cultural foundations of the United States.
- Studying the 1930s is essential for understanding the events that shaped the world and the resilience and resourcefulness of the American people during difficult times.
QUESTIONS
- In what ways did the cultural and political developments of the 1930s shape the United States and continue to influence contemporary society?
- What was the significance of the Okies and their experiences during the Dust Bowl era in terms of American resilience and perseverance?
- How does the study of the Great Depression and the 1930s help us understand the human spirit and its ability to endure even in the most difficult of circumstances?
#6 No Cherry-Picking
History, you are a cruel mistress. Some days you are a fun romp that looks at our past; other days, you are a sad reminder of our shortcomings and failures. Sometimes you are a well-documented account, with 1000s of books written on your behalf. Other times you are a convoluted mess, an untidy murder scene riddled with more questions than answers. Either way, rule number 6 of history: No cherry-picking. For those unfamiliar with the concept, cherry-picking is the act of pointing to individual cases or data that seem to confirm a position while ignoring a significant portion of related and similar topics or data that may contradict that position. Cherry-picking may be committed intentionally or unintentionally, but births the same results. History is not entirely exceptional, and nor is it wholly evil. And to not attempt to remain a centrist in these matters does a disservice to the historical community.
In the realm of historical study, "cherry-picking" takes on a new meaning. It refers to the insidious practice of choosing only certain events or aspects of history to fit one's agenda or perspective. This kind of selective interpretation can be hazardous, as it can lead to a distorted and incomplete understanding of the past. It can be used to justify oppressive systems or to whitewash the actions of those in power. However, it's not all bad. The practice of cherry-picking can also be used to shed light on marginalized or overlooked perspectives or to challenge dominant narratives. Regardless of the intent, it's crucial that we, as historians and citizens strive to avoid cherry-picking and instead strive for a more nuanced and complete understanding of the past. Only then can we truly grasp the complexity and richness of history and make informed decisions about the present and future.
Ah, the beauty of cherry-picking historical events. It's like picking the juiciest, ripest cherries from the tree of time. And let me tell you, the Civil Rights Movement in the United States was one hell of a cherry. It brought to light the injustices and inequalities faced by African Americans, shining a spotlight on the ugly issue of racism and discrimination. Thanks to this cherry-picked event, activists and educators were able to rally the masses and bring about change. And that, my friends, is the sweetest fruit of all. Another perk of selecting a specific moment in history and holding it up as a shining example is how it can light a fire under people's butts. Take the American Revolution, for instance. We often cherry-pick the parts that speak to the principles of liberty and self-governance and use them as a call to arms for those who give a shit about creating a more fair and equal world. It's a reminder that real change is possible, and it's up to us to make it happen.
But let's remember the dark side of cherry-picking a historical event. It can lead to a twisted and twisted version of the past, like a distorted carnival mirror. Take the Civil Rights Movement, for instance. If you only focus on the glories of Martin Luther King Jr. without paying attention to the bigger picture, you're missing the whole point. You're ignoring the contributions of all the others who fought alongside him and the social and political climate of the time. Another sinister outcome of selective interpretation of historical events is manipulating the past to justify oppressive actions in the present. When the American Revolution is reduced to a mere celebration of freedom and democracy, it becomes a tool for those in power to condone the atrocities of American imperialism and the subjugation of Indigenous nations. Such cherry-picked history is a dangerous weapon in the hands of those who seek to uphold their power and privilege.
To ensure your understanding of history is maintained, you must start looking at things from all angles. You have to dig deep and look at many primary and secondary sources. And don't just read one interpretation of an event; look at it from different perspectives. You need to pick and choose what you like and ignore the rest.
But most importantly, be aware of your own biases. They're sneaky little buggers that can mess with your understanding of history. So watch out for them, and keep an open mind. Cherry-picking history is like its namesake: picking through a bowl of cherries, you might find a few good ones, but you're bound to miss out on the complete picture. Sure, it can shine a light on important issues and inspire change, but it can also lead to a distorted understanding of the past and justify sketchy actions and policies. To truly understand history, you must take a big bite, consider all the different perspectives, and be aware of your biases.
In short, there is a current trend to politize American history as either American exceptionalism or a country founded solely on oppression. The truth is, both are right.
THE RUNDOWN
STATE OF THE UNION
History, you are a cruel mistress. Some days you are a fun romp that looks at our past; other days, you are a sad reminder of our shortcomings and failures. Sometimes you are a well-documented account, with 1000s of books written on your behalf. Other times you are a convoluted mess, an untidy murder scene riddled with more questions than answers. Either way, rule number 6 of history: No cherry-picking. For those unfamiliar with the concept, cherry-picking is the act of pointing to individual cases or data that seem to confirm a position while ignoring a significant portion of related and similar topics or data that may contradict that position. Cherry-picking may be committed intentionally or unintentionally, but births the same results. History is not entirely exceptional, and nor is it wholly evil. And to not attempt to remain a centrist in these matters does a disservice to the historical community.
In the realm of historical study, "cherry-picking" takes on a new meaning. It refers to the insidious practice of choosing only certain events or aspects of history to fit one's agenda or perspective. This kind of selective interpretation can be hazardous, as it can lead to a distorted and incomplete understanding of the past. It can be used to justify oppressive systems or to whitewash the actions of those in power. However, it's not all bad. The practice of cherry-picking can also be used to shed light on marginalized or overlooked perspectives or to challenge dominant narratives. Regardless of the intent, it's crucial that we, as historians and citizens strive to avoid cherry-picking and instead strive for a more nuanced and complete understanding of the past. Only then can we truly grasp the complexity and richness of history and make informed decisions about the present and future.
Ah, the beauty of cherry-picking historical events. It's like picking the juiciest, ripest cherries from the tree of time. And let me tell you, the Civil Rights Movement in the United States was one hell of a cherry. It brought to light the injustices and inequalities faced by African Americans, shining a spotlight on the ugly issue of racism and discrimination. Thanks to this cherry-picked event, activists and educators were able to rally the masses and bring about change. And that, my friends, is the sweetest fruit of all. Another perk of selecting a specific moment in history and holding it up as a shining example is how it can light a fire under people's butts. Take the American Revolution, for instance. We often cherry-pick the parts that speak to the principles of liberty and self-governance and use them as a call to arms for those who give a shit about creating a more fair and equal world. It's a reminder that real change is possible, and it's up to us to make it happen.
But let's remember the dark side of cherry-picking a historical event. It can lead to a twisted and twisted version of the past, like a distorted carnival mirror. Take the Civil Rights Movement, for instance. If you only focus on the glories of Martin Luther King Jr. without paying attention to the bigger picture, you're missing the whole point. You're ignoring the contributions of all the others who fought alongside him and the social and political climate of the time. Another sinister outcome of selective interpretation of historical events is manipulating the past to justify oppressive actions in the present. When the American Revolution is reduced to a mere celebration of freedom and democracy, it becomes a tool for those in power to condone the atrocities of American imperialism and the subjugation of Indigenous nations. Such cherry-picked history is a dangerous weapon in the hands of those who seek to uphold their power and privilege.
To ensure your understanding of history is maintained, you must start looking at things from all angles. You have to dig deep and look at many primary and secondary sources. And don't just read one interpretation of an event; look at it from different perspectives. You need to pick and choose what you like and ignore the rest.
But most importantly, be aware of your own biases. They're sneaky little buggers that can mess with your understanding of history. So watch out for them, and keep an open mind. Cherry-picking history is like its namesake: picking through a bowl of cherries, you might find a few good ones, but you're bound to miss out on the complete picture. Sure, it can shine a light on important issues and inspire change, but it can also lead to a distorted understanding of the past and justify sketchy actions and policies. To truly understand history, you must take a big bite, consider all the different perspectives, and be aware of your biases.
In short, there is a current trend to politize American history as either American exceptionalism or a country founded solely on oppression. The truth is, both are right.
THE RUNDOWN
- History is a complicated and diverse topic.
- When people "cherry-pick," they select certain historical events to explain what happened in the past.
- This can make their interpretation inaccurate and incomplete.
- Some people use cherry-picking to justify oppressive systems, while others use it to question commonly accepted ideas.
- It's crucial to avoid cherry-picking and aim for a balanced understanding of history.
- Looking at specific historical moments can motivate positive change but also distort our perception of the past.
- To truly understand history, we need to consider all points of view and be aware of our biases.
- There is a tendency to politicize American history by emphasizing its exceptionalism or focusing on its oppression, but both are true.
STATE OF THE UNION
HIGHLIGHTS
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We've got some fine classroom lectures coming your way, all courtesy of the RPTM podcast. These lectures will take you on a wild ride through history, exploring everything from ancient civilizations and epic battles to scientific breakthroughs and artistic revolutions. The podcast will guide you through each lecture with its no-nonsense, straight-talking style, using various sources to give you the lowdown on each topic. You won't find any fancy-pants jargon or convoluted theories here, just plain and straightforward explanations anyone can understand. So sit back and prepare to soak up some knowledge.
LECTURES
LECTURES
- COMING SOON
READING
Carnes, Chapter 24: Postwar Society and Culture: Change and Adjustment
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Carnes, Mark C., and John A. Garraty. American Destiny: Narrative of a Nation. 4th ed. Vol. 2.: Pearson, 2011.
Mark C. Carnes and John A. Garraty are respected historians who have made notable contributions to American history. Carnes specializes in American education and culture, focusing on the role of secret societies in shaping American culture in the 19th century. Garraty is known for his general surveys of American history, his biographies of American historical figures and studies of specific aspects of American history, and his clear and accessible writing.
Carnes, Chapter 24: Postwar Society and Culture: Change and Adjustment
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Carnes, Mark C., and John A. Garraty. American Destiny: Narrative of a Nation. 4th ed. Vol. 2.: Pearson, 2011.
Mark C. Carnes and John A. Garraty are respected historians who have made notable contributions to American history. Carnes specializes in American education and culture, focusing on the role of secret societies in shaping American culture in the 19th century. Garraty is known for his general surveys of American history, his biographies of American historical figures and studies of specific aspects of American history, and his clear and accessible writing.
Howard Zinn was a historian, writer, and political activist known for his critical analysis of American history. He is particularly well-known for his counter-narrative to traditional American history accounts and highlights marginalized groups' experiences and perspectives. Zinn's work is often associated with social history and is known for his Marxist and socialist views. Larry Schweikart is also a historian, but his work and perspective are often considered more conservative. Schweikart's work is often associated with military history, and he is known for his support of free-market economics and limited government. Overall, Zinn and Schweikart have different perspectives on various historical issues and events and may interpret historical events and phenomena differently. Occasionally, we will also look at Thaddeus Russell, a historian, author, and academic. Russell has written extensively on the history of social and cultural change, and his work focuses on how marginalized and oppressed groups have challenged and transformed mainstream culture. Russell is known for his unconventional and controversial ideas, and his work has been praised for its originality and provocative nature.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules. You can access the full text of People's History or Patriot's History by clicking on the links.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules. You can access the full text of People's History or Patriot's History by clicking on the links.
Zinn, A People's History of the United States
"...The coming of World War II weakened the old labor militancy of the thirties because the war economy created millions of new jobs at higher wages. The New Deal had succeeded only in reducing unemployment from 13 million to 9 million. It was the war that put almost
everyone to work, and the war did something else: patriotism, the push for unity of all classes against enemies overseas, made it harder to mobilize anger against the corporations. During the war, the CIO and AFL pledged to call no strikes.
Still, the grievances of workers were such-wartime 'controls' meant their wages were being controlled better than prices-that they felt impelled to engage in many wildcat strikes: there were more strikes in 1944 than in any previous year in American history... The thirties and forties showed more clearly than before the dilemma of working people in the United States. The system responded to workers' rebellions by finding new forms of control-internal control by their own organizations as well as outside control by law and force. But along with the new controls came new concessions. These concessions didn't solve basic problems; for many people they solved nothing. But they helped enough people to create an atmosphere of progress and improvement, to restore some faith in the system..."
"...The coming of World War II weakened the old labor militancy of the thirties because the war economy created millions of new jobs at higher wages. The New Deal had succeeded only in reducing unemployment from 13 million to 9 million. It was the war that put almost
everyone to work, and the war did something else: patriotism, the push for unity of all classes against enemies overseas, made it harder to mobilize anger against the corporations. During the war, the CIO and AFL pledged to call no strikes.
Still, the grievances of workers were such-wartime 'controls' meant their wages were being controlled better than prices-that they felt impelled to engage in many wildcat strikes: there were more strikes in 1944 than in any previous year in American history... The thirties and forties showed more clearly than before the dilemma of working people in the United States. The system responded to workers' rebellions by finding new forms of control-internal control by their own organizations as well as outside control by law and force. But along with the new controls came new concessions. These concessions didn't solve basic problems; for many people they solved nothing. But they helped enough people to create an atmosphere of progress and improvement, to restore some faith in the system..."
Larry Schweikart, A Patriot's History of the United States
"... Unwilling to use the power of the federal government to “fix” the economy, the befuddled Hoover deservedly lost the 1932 election to Franklin Roosevelt, at which point everything improved. Roosevelt’s vision and courage, through the creation of the New Deal,
led America out of the Depression. Little of this mythology is true. Consider the notion that the stock market was one gigantic
speculative bubble: there is virtually no evidence for that in numerous studies by economic historians. The most any economists come up with is a tiny layer of speculation at the top, one incapable of affecting either stock prices or attitudes toward buying securities. If anything, the market accurately reflected the fantastic growth in American industry. The most rapidly rising stocks in the 1920s had been electric utilities, radios, and autos. Since 1899 industrial use of electricity had zoomed upward by nearly 300 percent. Little else needs to be said about the impact of autos on America’s culture and economy. Certainly the auto industry was not indicative of
speculation.
In fact, several elements would have had to be present to make a case for speculation. First, people would have had to invest with little or no information about the securities they were purchasing. That has not been demonstrated. Quite the opposite, studies have shown that most investors were well informed, especially about foreign bonds that supposedly had dragged down the large banks. As just one example, Charles E. Merrill, the securities genius who perceived that the markets of the future would lie with the vast middle class, constructed his firm’s reputation on accurate and honest appraisals of securities. Second, to make the case for speculation, as John Kenneth Galbraith attempted to do, it has to be shown that the maldistribution of wealth resulted in most of the trading’s being conducted by the wealthy. Yet analyses of bond issues of the day showed that a broad cross section of Americans snapped up the latest bonds, with the most prominent occupations of the purchasers being schoolteachers, cabbies, and maids.
But even the notion that the stock market crash caused the Depression itself is egregiously wrong. Although the market may have temporarily reflected a downturn in the economy, the Depression was a confluence of several dramatic shocks (especially the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act), which were made worse by foolish Federal Reserve Board policies and then rapidly accelerated into the abyss by government attempts to 'solve' the problems. We begin to correct the host of thoroughly confused writings about the nation’s worst economic episode with an accurate appraisal of the 1920s..."
"... Unwilling to use the power of the federal government to “fix” the economy, the befuddled Hoover deservedly lost the 1932 election to Franklin Roosevelt, at which point everything improved. Roosevelt’s vision and courage, through the creation of the New Deal,
led America out of the Depression. Little of this mythology is true. Consider the notion that the stock market was one gigantic
speculative bubble: there is virtually no evidence for that in numerous studies by economic historians. The most any economists come up with is a tiny layer of speculation at the top, one incapable of affecting either stock prices or attitudes toward buying securities. If anything, the market accurately reflected the fantastic growth in American industry. The most rapidly rising stocks in the 1920s had been electric utilities, radios, and autos. Since 1899 industrial use of electricity had zoomed upward by nearly 300 percent. Little else needs to be said about the impact of autos on America’s culture and economy. Certainly the auto industry was not indicative of
speculation.
In fact, several elements would have had to be present to make a case for speculation. First, people would have had to invest with little or no information about the securities they were purchasing. That has not been demonstrated. Quite the opposite, studies have shown that most investors were well informed, especially about foreign bonds that supposedly had dragged down the large banks. As just one example, Charles E. Merrill, the securities genius who perceived that the markets of the future would lie with the vast middle class, constructed his firm’s reputation on accurate and honest appraisals of securities. Second, to make the case for speculation, as John Kenneth Galbraith attempted to do, it has to be shown that the maldistribution of wealth resulted in most of the trading’s being conducted by the wealthy. Yet analyses of bond issues of the day showed that a broad cross section of Americans snapped up the latest bonds, with the most prominent occupations of the purchasers being schoolteachers, cabbies, and maids.
But even the notion that the stock market crash caused the Depression itself is egregiously wrong. Although the market may have temporarily reflected a downturn in the economy, the Depression was a confluence of several dramatic shocks (especially the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act), which were made worse by foolish Federal Reserve Board policies and then rapidly accelerated into the abyss by government attempts to 'solve' the problems. We begin to correct the host of thoroughly confused writings about the nation’s worst economic episode with an accurate appraisal of the 1920s..."
Thaddeus Russell, A Renegade History of the United States
"...It is absurd to claim, as a few have done, that the New Deal, the basis of what we now know as “liberalism,” was identical to either German Nazism or Italian Fascism. But it is equally absurd to ignore, as all our textbooks do, the fact that the New Deal and European fascism grew from the same ideological roots, produced strikingly similar policies, and fostered national cultures that, if not identical, bore the resemblance of siblings. Though we think of Hitler’s and Mussolini’s regimes as pathological, even psychotic, and entirely alien to our political tradition, in fact, they were organically connected to the most influential American political movement of the twentieth century.
The policies initiated during Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidency redefined the relationship between the federal government and American society. The ideas behind those policies overthrew the laissez-faire ideology that had dominated the nation’s political culture since its founding. Most fundamentally, the New Deal brought about an age of communal morality and made social regimentation a primary value in American popular culture. The margin of freedom between the individual and society was at its narrowest in the age of Roosevelt.
Though many see the New Deal era as a rebellious moment, when American culture embraced the interests of the lowest classes, in fact—like the War of Independence, abolitionism, and Reconstruction—it was one of the great anti-renegade moments in the history of the United States...."
What Does Professor Lancaster Think?
Amid the Second World War, the American labor movement faced a defining moment. The years leading up to the war were marked by high levels of unemployment, with over 13 million people struggling to make ends meet. Despite the New Deal's efforts to provide some relief, the war economy genuinely transformed the job market. As the country rallied behind the war effort, millions of new jobs with better pay were created, employing a previously struggling population.
However, this newfound sense of patriotism and unity in the face of foreign threats also profoundly affected the labor movement. The need for a united front against the enemy made it challenging for workers to organize and fight against corporations. The CIO and AFL, two influential labor organizations, chose to refrain from staging any strikes during the war, recognizing the importance of maintaining a cohesive national effort.
Despite the challenges faced, the American labor movement persevered and continued to push for progress and justice for working people. The outbreak of World War II may have temporarily stifled their efforts, but it ultimately inspired a new generation of activists and leaders to rise and demand change.
Amidst the lack of union fervor, the laborers still had much to lament, particularly concerning their earnings and the capricious reign over them. 1944 saw more walkouts than any year before, proving the toil and tribulations faced by the ordinary person in America. The powers that be countered these revolts with new tactics of domination, be it from within their structures or from the outside, with laws and brute force. Though these measures did bring some order, they also came with small compromises, patching up some of the workers' woes but only offering a reprieve for their trust in the system.
Let me tell you something about the so-called popular belief that the federal government's hands-off approach to the economy led to Hoover's defeat and Roosevelt's victory in the '32 election. That's a load of hogwash. The truth is the Great Depression was a complicated beast, and to say the lack of intervention solely caused it is a gross oversimplification. It was a perfect storm of events, including the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act, flawed Federal Reserve decisions, and misguided government attempts to fix the issues. To truly understand this darkest chapter in American history, we must look beyond the surface and dig deep into the root causes."
Listen up, friends, let me tell you something straight. The New Deal, the cornerstone of progressive politics, ain't no way in hell the same as Hitler's Nazi regime or Mussolini's Fascism. But don't you dare think that these European ideologies had no connection to the New Deal. The truth is these two movements share a common ancestry, they preach the same gospel, and they cultivate a similar, if not identical, national identity. Don't you go believing that Hitler and Mussolini were some wild-eyed freaks utterly alien to the American way of life. No, sir, they were intricately tied to the most pivotal political movement in 20th-century America.
Verily, in President Franklin D. Roosevelt's days, a significant shift swept the land. A challenge to the long-held beliefs of laissez-faire was raised, and a new era of shared morality was born. The New Deal was born, and it marked a time of social regulation in the hearts and minds of the people. The divide between the individual and society was bridged as never before, akin to the War of Independence, the fight for abolition, and the rebuilding after the War of Secession. But make no mistake; it was not a time of uprising for the lowly, but rather a moment of excellent stability, a bulwark against rebellion.
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
"...It is absurd to claim, as a few have done, that the New Deal, the basis of what we now know as “liberalism,” was identical to either German Nazism or Italian Fascism. But it is equally absurd to ignore, as all our textbooks do, the fact that the New Deal and European fascism grew from the same ideological roots, produced strikingly similar policies, and fostered national cultures that, if not identical, bore the resemblance of siblings. Though we think of Hitler’s and Mussolini’s regimes as pathological, even psychotic, and entirely alien to our political tradition, in fact, they were organically connected to the most influential American political movement of the twentieth century.
The policies initiated during Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidency redefined the relationship between the federal government and American society. The ideas behind those policies overthrew the laissez-faire ideology that had dominated the nation’s political culture since its founding. Most fundamentally, the New Deal brought about an age of communal morality and made social regimentation a primary value in American popular culture. The margin of freedom between the individual and society was at its narrowest in the age of Roosevelt.
Though many see the New Deal era as a rebellious moment, when American culture embraced the interests of the lowest classes, in fact—like the War of Independence, abolitionism, and Reconstruction—it was one of the great anti-renegade moments in the history of the United States...."
What Does Professor Lancaster Think?
Amid the Second World War, the American labor movement faced a defining moment. The years leading up to the war were marked by high levels of unemployment, with over 13 million people struggling to make ends meet. Despite the New Deal's efforts to provide some relief, the war economy genuinely transformed the job market. As the country rallied behind the war effort, millions of new jobs with better pay were created, employing a previously struggling population.
However, this newfound sense of patriotism and unity in the face of foreign threats also profoundly affected the labor movement. The need for a united front against the enemy made it challenging for workers to organize and fight against corporations. The CIO and AFL, two influential labor organizations, chose to refrain from staging any strikes during the war, recognizing the importance of maintaining a cohesive national effort.
Despite the challenges faced, the American labor movement persevered and continued to push for progress and justice for working people. The outbreak of World War II may have temporarily stifled their efforts, but it ultimately inspired a new generation of activists and leaders to rise and demand change.
Amidst the lack of union fervor, the laborers still had much to lament, particularly concerning their earnings and the capricious reign over them. 1944 saw more walkouts than any year before, proving the toil and tribulations faced by the ordinary person in America. The powers that be countered these revolts with new tactics of domination, be it from within their structures or from the outside, with laws and brute force. Though these measures did bring some order, they also came with small compromises, patching up some of the workers' woes but only offering a reprieve for their trust in the system.
Let me tell you something about the so-called popular belief that the federal government's hands-off approach to the economy led to Hoover's defeat and Roosevelt's victory in the '32 election. That's a load of hogwash. The truth is the Great Depression was a complicated beast, and to say the lack of intervention solely caused it is a gross oversimplification. It was a perfect storm of events, including the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act, flawed Federal Reserve decisions, and misguided government attempts to fix the issues. To truly understand this darkest chapter in American history, we must look beyond the surface and dig deep into the root causes."
Listen up, friends, let me tell you something straight. The New Deal, the cornerstone of progressive politics, ain't no way in hell the same as Hitler's Nazi regime or Mussolini's Fascism. But don't you dare think that these European ideologies had no connection to the New Deal. The truth is these two movements share a common ancestry, they preach the same gospel, and they cultivate a similar, if not identical, national identity. Don't you go believing that Hitler and Mussolini were some wild-eyed freaks utterly alien to the American way of life. No, sir, they were intricately tied to the most pivotal political movement in 20th-century America.
Verily, in President Franklin D. Roosevelt's days, a significant shift swept the land. A challenge to the long-held beliefs of laissez-faire was raised, and a new era of shared morality was born. The New Deal was born, and it marked a time of social regulation in the hearts and minds of the people. The divide between the individual and society was bridged as never before, akin to the War of Independence, the fight for abolition, and the rebuilding after the War of Secession. But make no mistake; it was not a time of uprising for the lowly, but rather a moment of excellent stability, a bulwark against rebellion.
THE RUNDOWN
- The American labor movement faced a defining moment during World War II.
- The years leading up to the war saw high levels of unemployment, but the war economy created millions of new jobs with better pay.
- The need for a united front against the enemy made it challenging for workers to organize and fight against corporations.
- The CIO and AFL chose to refrain from staging strikes during the war.
- Despite the challenges, the labor movement continued to push for progress and justice for working people.
- The outbreak of World War II inspired a new generation of activists and leaders to rise and demand change.
- The laborers still had much to lament about their earnings and the capricious control over them.
- The powers that be countered worker revolts with new tactics of domination.
- The New Deal marked a time of social regulation in the hearts and minds of the people and bridged the divide between the individual and society.
- The New Deal was not a time of uprising for the lowly, but rather a moment of stability and a bulwark against rebellion.
QUESTIONS
- How did the war economy impact the job market for American workers?
- How did the New Deal differ from Nazi and Fascist regimes in Europe?
- What was the significance of the New Deal in American history?
During the great depression, employment was scarce. In this photo, a giant billboard encourages traveling job seekers to look elsewhere for work.
THE RUNDOWN
The Roaring Twenties blazed with prosperity across the land of the free, where the winds of wealth swept across the nation with a ferocity unseen. The heart of this prosperity beat with the pulse of the automobile industry, where a man named Henry Ford, with his mighty Ford Motor Company, reigned supreme. His empire was unrivaled, his name a rallying cry for the working man. But as the fateful year of 1929 approached, the skies darkened over Ford's kingdom. In a bid to quell production, he brought in a horde of private enforcers to watch his laborers and enforce a strict code. This act, a dagger to the hearts of his very own workers, sparked fury amongst his once loyal subjects.
The Great Depression descended upon the land, bringing with it a tempest of suffering and want. Detroit, once a bastion of promise, became a symbol of the misery that ravaged the nation. Ford's workers, stripped of their wages and dignity, fought to survive in a world turned upside down. Yet, they remained steadfast, their spirits unbroken, their love for their work unshaken. They toiled on, with sweat on their brows and fire in their hearts, facing the trials of the Depression head on. And in the end, their unwavering spirit and tireless labor forged the Ford Motor Company into a beacon of strength, leading the way to a new era of prosperity.
The Roaring Twenties blazed with prosperity across the land of the free, where the winds of wealth swept across the nation with a ferocity unseen. The heart of this prosperity beat with the pulse of the automobile industry, where a man named Henry Ford, with his mighty Ford Motor Company, reigned supreme. His empire was unrivaled, his name a rallying cry for the working man. But as the fateful year of 1929 approached, the skies darkened over Ford's kingdom. In a bid to quell production, he brought in a horde of private enforcers to watch his laborers and enforce a strict code. This act, a dagger to the hearts of his very own workers, sparked fury amongst his once loyal subjects.
The Great Depression descended upon the land, bringing with it a tempest of suffering and want. Detroit, once a bastion of promise, became a symbol of the misery that ravaged the nation. Ford's workers, stripped of their wages and dignity, fought to survive in a world turned upside down. Yet, they remained steadfast, their spirits unbroken, their love for their work unshaken. They toiled on, with sweat on their brows and fire in their hearts, facing the trials of the Depression head on. And in the end, their unwavering spirit and tireless labor forged the Ford Motor Company into a beacon of strength, leading the way to a new era of prosperity.
KEY TERMS
- 1929 Polio
- 1929 Stock Market Crash
- 1930- Fashion
- 1930 Swing Music
- 1930 “The Hipster”
- 1930 Philly Cheesesteak
- 1930 Chocolate Chip Cookie
- 1930 Twinkies
- 1932: Amelia Earhart
- 1932: Franklin D. Roosevelt, a Person with a Disability, Elected President
- 1933 FDR’s First Fireside Chat
- The New Deal
- 1933: Drive-In Movie Theater
- 1934 The Communications Act of 1934
- 1935 The Dust Bowl Hits Its Most Infamous Day
- 1935: FM radio is born, but only in mono.
- 1938 Superman
- 1939 WW2
- 1939 Asian Americans in WWI
- 1939 Latinos in WWII
- 1939 African Americans in WWII
- 1939 Women in WWII
- 1939 Jews in WWII
DISCLAIMER: Welcome scholars to the wild and wacky world of history class. This isn't your granddaddy's boring ol' lecture, baby. We will take a trip through time, which will be one wild ride. I know some of you are in a brick-and-mortar setting, while others are in the vast digital wasteland. But fear not; we're all in this together. Online students might miss out on some in-person interaction, but you can still join in on the fun. This little shindig aims to get you all engaged with the course material and understand how past societies have shaped the world we know today. We'll talk about revolutions, wars, and other crazy stuff. So get ready, kids, because it's going to be one heck of a trip. And for all, you online students out there, don't be shy. Please share your thoughts and ideas with the rest of us. The Professor will do his best to give everyone an equal opportunity to learn, so don't hold back. So, let's do this thing!
Activity: The Great Depression Debates
Instructions
Classroom: “Living Through the Great Depression: A Simulation”
Materials:
SUMMARY
ASSIGNMENTS
Remember all assignments, tests and quizzes must be submitted official via BLACKBOARD
Forum Discussion #7
Activity: The Great Depression Debates
Instructions
- Divide the class into groups of four or five students
- Each group will be assigned a specific perspective or argument about the Great Depression. Some examples include:
- The Hoover administration's approach
- The New Deal policies of the Roosevelt administration
- The Marxist perspective
- The role of banks and the monetary system
- Give the groups time to research and gather information about their assigned perspective.
- Each group will then present a 10-minute debate in front of the class, defending their assigned perspective.
- After all the debates, the class will participate in a large group discussion to reflect on the different arguments and perspectives.
Classroom: “Living Through the Great Depression: A Simulation”
Materials:
- News articles and photographs from the time period (can be found online or in a history textbook)
- A list of different jobs and their corresponding salaries during the Great Depression (can be found online or in a history textbook)
- Play money (or blank paper that can be cut into play money)
- A list of goods and services with prices from the Great Depression (can be found online or in a history textbook)
- Before the class, prepare a list of different jobs and their corresponding salaries during the Great Depression.
- Divide the class into small groups of 4 to 5 students.
- Give each student a job and salary.
- Explain that each student is now living in the Great Depression and must make ends meet with the salary they have been assigned.
- Provide each group with a list of goods and services and their prices from the Great Depression.
- Each student must decide what they can afford to buy based on their salary and what they believe is necessary for their survival.
- Provide each group with play money or blank paper that can be cut into play money.
- Each student must keep track of their purchases and expenses.
- After 20 minutes of shopping, discuss the challenges faced by each student and the impact it had on their daily lives.
- Show the class news articles and photographs from the time period to reinforce what they learned from the simulation.
SUMMARY
- The decade from 1929 to 1939 in America was marked by the Great Depression, a period of intense economic turmoil, widespread poverty, and high unemployment rates.
- The Stock Market Crash of 1929 was the event that marked the beginning of the Great Depression, leading to the loss of millions of dollars and widespread panic.
- The New Deal programs introduced by President Roosevelt were designed to provide jobs and support to the struggling masses, with the Works Progress Administration being one of the most significant initiatives.
- The Dust Bowl, a period of drought, over-farming, and wind erosion, led to massive dust storms and the migration of refugees known as the "Okies." However, the era also saw the rise of a resilient and resourceful counterculture.
- The Harlem Renaissance, a celebration of black art and literature, saw the rise of jazz with legends like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington hailed as heroes of the people.
- The 1930s era had a decisive impact on the economic, political, and cultural foundations of the United States and continues to hold sway over contemporary cultural trends.
- In historical study, "cherry-picking" refers to the practice of choosing only certain events or aspects of history to fit one's agenda or perspective, leading to a distorted and incomplete understanding of the past.
ASSIGNMENTS
- Forum Discussion #7
- Quiz #2
Remember all assignments, tests and quizzes must be submitted official via BLACKBOARD
Forum Discussion #7
The Shadow is the name of a collection of serialized dramas, originally in 1930s pulp novels and then in various media. Its title character has been featured on the radio in a long-running pulp magazine series, American comic books, comic strips, television, serials, video games, and at least five feature films. The radio drama included episodes voiced by Orson Welles. Listen to this episode of the Shadow (Originally aired 12.12.37-four years after the Depression) and answer the following:
How vital is escapism to people during the Great Depression? Why do people enjoy the vigilante troupe in storytelling? Cite examples from the episode.
Your initial post should be no less than two paragraphs with at least two sources. You must have your discussion question posted by Sunday by 11:59 pm. Remember, you will be required to respond to two of your peers with a thoughtful question/rebuttal before 11:59 pm.
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
THE RUNDOWN
And so it was, on a dark and stormy night, that our protagonist Dr. James Evans was approached by the enigmatic figure known only as the Shadow. The Shadow had news of a death threat against an old friend of the doctor's and implored him to help investigate the matter. The first target, the Shadow revealed, would be the estate of a wealthy banker on Long Island. With a sense of foreboding, Dr. Evans agreed to assist. They discussed the possibility of a criminal behind the threat, and the Shadow spoke of Devil's Island and the escape of a prisoner from there. The doctor, who had been a political prisoner on the island, was keenly aware of the danger.
The Shadow spoke of a warning signal that had been used during the escape from Devil's Island and mentioned that the cover of the decanter had been changed. The speaker vowed to use their power only when required and discovered a chilling note where the decanter had once stood: "You are the first, and you will die tonight." Such was the beginning of a tale that would prove to be a wild ride through the dark corners of the mind, a journey filled with fear, intrigue, and unexpected twists and turns. And so, my friends, we sit back and listen to the radio play and hope that the good doctor and the Shadow can unravel the mystery before it's too late.
LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO
How vital is escapism to people during the Great Depression? Why do people enjoy the vigilante troupe in storytelling? Cite examples from the episode.
Your initial post should be no less than two paragraphs with at least two sources. You must have your discussion question posted by Sunday by 11:59 pm. Remember, you will be required to respond to two of your peers with a thoughtful question/rebuttal before 11:59 pm.
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
THE RUNDOWN
And so it was, on a dark and stormy night, that our protagonist Dr. James Evans was approached by the enigmatic figure known only as the Shadow. The Shadow had news of a death threat against an old friend of the doctor's and implored him to help investigate the matter. The first target, the Shadow revealed, would be the estate of a wealthy banker on Long Island. With a sense of foreboding, Dr. Evans agreed to assist. They discussed the possibility of a criminal behind the threat, and the Shadow spoke of Devil's Island and the escape of a prisoner from there. The doctor, who had been a political prisoner on the island, was keenly aware of the danger.
The Shadow spoke of a warning signal that had been used during the escape from Devil's Island and mentioned that the cover of the decanter had been changed. The speaker vowed to use their power only when required and discovered a chilling note where the decanter had once stood: "You are the first, and you will die tonight." Such was the beginning of a tale that would prove to be a wild ride through the dark corners of the mind, a journey filled with fear, intrigue, and unexpected twists and turns. And so, my friends, we sit back and listen to the radio play and hope that the good doctor and the Shadow can unravel the mystery before it's too late.
LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO
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