Brother, Can You Spare A Dime? (1929 CE - 1939 CE)
The tumultuous era of the Great Depression, marked by Wall Street's perilous gamble with the economy, resulting predictably in its catastrophic collapse. The crash of the 1929 Stock Market wasn't a mere fluctuation but a plummet into the depths of economic desolation, leaving erstwhile affluent individuals scrounging for sustenance amidst the ruins. However, amidst this financial abyss emerged Franklin D. Roosevelt as a beacon of governmental intervention, riding forth with his New Deal initiatives poised to rectify the economic turmoil. The New Deal wasn't merely a superficial fix; it served as the adhesive holding the shattered economy in place, reassuringly whispering promises of restoration.
The Works Progress Administration (WPA) resembled a governmental employment initiative on an unprecedented scale, engaging millions in infrastructure projects ranging from bridges to parks, perhaps even contemplating a monumental tribute to FDR himself. It epitomized the art of earning wages by embellishing walls with paint, passing it off as an artistic endeavor while harboring aspirations for a brighter future. The Dust Bowl, a natural catastrophe of immense proportions, was a stern admonition from Mother Nature against reckless exploitation of the environment. It wasn't a minor inconvenience but akin to dwelling within a colossal sandcastle demolished by a petulant child. Yet, from the dust and despair emerged a tenacious spirit akin to weathered leather boots as the resilient "Okies" persevered, journeying westward in search of more hospitable lands.
Meanwhile, amidst the economic turmoil and swirling dust clouds of the era, a cultural renaissance burgeoned in Harlem, akin to a robust brew of coffee on a dreary Monday morning. The Harlem Renaissance wasn't mere artistic experimentation but a defiant rebuttal to societal norms, a celebration of black excellence in defiance of systemic oppression. And amidst this Depression-era narrative, Social Security emerged as a vital lifeline, offering gratitude to survivors of the economic maelstrom with a measure of financial security in their twilight years. It wasn't merely a safety net but a crucial support system for millions who weathered the storm.
So, what lessons do you think can be gleaned from this period? History has a penchant for cyclic repetition, akin to an incessant rerun of a lackluster sitcom. Yet, amidst the gloom, the Great Depression underscores the resilience of the human spirit, offering a glimmer of hope amid the darkest times.
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
The tumultuous era of the Great Depression, marked by Wall Street's perilous gamble with the economy, resulting predictably in its catastrophic collapse. The crash of the 1929 Stock Market wasn't a mere fluctuation but a plummet into the depths of economic desolation, leaving erstwhile affluent individuals scrounging for sustenance amidst the ruins. However, amidst this financial abyss emerged Franklin D. Roosevelt as a beacon of governmental intervention, riding forth with his New Deal initiatives poised to rectify the economic turmoil. The New Deal wasn't merely a superficial fix; it served as the adhesive holding the shattered economy in place, reassuringly whispering promises of restoration.
The Works Progress Administration (WPA) resembled a governmental employment initiative on an unprecedented scale, engaging millions in infrastructure projects ranging from bridges to parks, perhaps even contemplating a monumental tribute to FDR himself. It epitomized the art of earning wages by embellishing walls with paint, passing it off as an artistic endeavor while harboring aspirations for a brighter future. The Dust Bowl, a natural catastrophe of immense proportions, was a stern admonition from Mother Nature against reckless exploitation of the environment. It wasn't a minor inconvenience but akin to dwelling within a colossal sandcastle demolished by a petulant child. Yet, from the dust and despair emerged a tenacious spirit akin to weathered leather boots as the resilient "Okies" persevered, journeying westward in search of more hospitable lands.
Meanwhile, amidst the economic turmoil and swirling dust clouds of the era, a cultural renaissance burgeoned in Harlem, akin to a robust brew of coffee on a dreary Monday morning. The Harlem Renaissance wasn't mere artistic experimentation but a defiant rebuttal to societal norms, a celebration of black excellence in defiance of systemic oppression. And amidst this Depression-era narrative, Social Security emerged as a vital lifeline, offering gratitude to survivors of the economic maelstrom with a measure of financial security in their twilight years. It wasn't merely a safety net but a crucial support system for millions who weathered the storm.
So, what lessons do you think can be gleaned from this period? History has a penchant for cyclic repetition, akin to an incessant rerun of a lackluster sitcom. Yet, amidst the gloom, the Great Depression underscores the resilience of the human spirit, offering a glimmer of hope amid the darkest times.
THE RUNDOWN
- The Great Depression (1929-1939) was a transformative era characterized by economic hardship and cultural shifts.
- The Stock Market Crash of 1929 plunged the nation into chaos, causing widespread poverty and unemployment.
- President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal initiatives provided hope through relief, recovery, and reform efforts.
- The Works Progress Administration (WPA) employed millions, revitalizing infrastructure and leaving a lasting impact.
- The Harlem Renaissance challenged racial stereotypes, reshaping American art, literature, and music.
- The Great Depression's enduring impact reshaped government intervention and cultural norms, shaping the modern welfare state.
QUESTIONS
- Explore the idea of history repeating itself. How can the lessons learned from the Great Depression be applied to current economic and social challenges? Are there warning signs or patterns we should be attentive to?
- Discuss the lasting impact of Social Security as a safety net during the Great Depression. In what ways does it continue to shape social and economic policies today?
- How did the Great Depression highlight the resilience of the human spirit? Can you identify instances from the era that inspire hope, and how might these lessons be relevant in today's world?
#6 No Cherry-Picking
The delicate dance of selective memory, where the past is plucked like ripe fruit, should be ready for consumption or transformation. But let's be honest – history, akin to a bruised cherry, can leave a bitter aftertaste if not cautiously approached. Picture a world where history is presented buffet-style, with patrons selecting the choicest bits to suit their palate. The Civil Rights Movement, a rich tapestry of defiance and perseverance, illustrates the power of selective memory. We highlight figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks, lauding them as heroes while overlooking the countless others who fought in obscurity, their names fading into history.
And what of the American Revolution, that grand saga of rebellion and rhetoric? We pluck freedom and independence from the annals, showcasing them while conveniently ignoring the darker shades of slavery and displacement. Selective memory is a perilous path. It's akin to constructing a sturdy edifice with only the shiniest bricks – appealing on the surface, yet destined to crumble under scrutiny.
Learn from the cautionary tales of history's past manipulators. Recall how the Nazis twisted Germany's past into a narrative of racial purity? Or how the Soviets painted the Russian Revolution in heroic hues while erasing Stalin's atrocities? So, how do we navigate this minefield of memory? How do we steer clear of bias and distortion?
The answer lies in equilibrium. We must approach history like a connoisseur comes fine wine – with discernment, curiosity, and skepticism. We must consult diverse sources from various perspectives and allow ourselves to be challenged and enlightened. Ultimately, history is not a rigid menu but a vast feast where every dish – regardless of flavor – deserves recognition.
RUNDOWN
STATE OF THE UNION
The delicate dance of selective memory, where the past is plucked like ripe fruit, should be ready for consumption or transformation. But let's be honest – history, akin to a bruised cherry, can leave a bitter aftertaste if not cautiously approached. Picture a world where history is presented buffet-style, with patrons selecting the choicest bits to suit their palate. The Civil Rights Movement, a rich tapestry of defiance and perseverance, illustrates the power of selective memory. We highlight figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks, lauding them as heroes while overlooking the countless others who fought in obscurity, their names fading into history.
And what of the American Revolution, that grand saga of rebellion and rhetoric? We pluck freedom and independence from the annals, showcasing them while conveniently ignoring the darker shades of slavery and displacement. Selective memory is a perilous path. It's akin to constructing a sturdy edifice with only the shiniest bricks – appealing on the surface, yet destined to crumble under scrutiny.
Learn from the cautionary tales of history's past manipulators. Recall how the Nazis twisted Germany's past into a narrative of racial purity? Or how the Soviets painted the Russian Revolution in heroic hues while erasing Stalin's atrocities? So, how do we navigate this minefield of memory? How do we steer clear of bias and distortion?
The answer lies in equilibrium. We must approach history like a connoisseur comes fine wine – with discernment, curiosity, and skepticism. We must consult diverse sources from various perspectives and allow ourselves to be challenged and enlightened. Ultimately, history is not a rigid menu but a vast feast where every dish – regardless of flavor – deserves recognition.
RUNDOWN
- Cherry-picking in history emphasizes selected positives while ignoring broader contexts.
- It can highlight important issues but may oversimplify complex events.
- Examples include focusing on Martin Luther King Jr. while neglecting other key figures in the Civil Rights Movement.
- Selective history can justify present oppression, such as using the American Revolution to support imperialism.
- Resisting cherry-picking and embracing diverse perspectives is crucial for a comprehensive understanding.
- Learning from the pitfalls of cherry-picking aids in appreciating history more accurately.
STATE OF THE UNION
United States in central North America on March 16, 1936.
1936: The Great Depression still had its dirty fingers wrapped around the throat of civilization, squeezing hope dry while the rise of fascism goose-stepped across Europe, with Hitler frothing like a rabid dog in Berlin and Mussolini flexing his colonial ego in Ethiopia. Meanwhile, Spain exploded into civil war—a violent street brawl of ideologies—and Stalin’s USSR was a paranoia-soaked nightmare of show trials and forced smiles. In America, FDR was playing New Deal whack-a-mole with the economy while Jesse Owens shoved a middle finger in the face of Nazi ideology at the Berlin Olympics. Jazz was hot, gangsters were still heroes, and the world drank gin in dimly lit speakeasies.
HIGHLIGHTS
|
|
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
The Reading section—a realm where our aspirations of enlightenment often clash with the harsh realities of procrastination and the desperate reliance on Google. We soldier on through dense texts, promised 'broadening perspectives' but often wrestling with existential dread and academic pressure. With a healthy dose of sarcasm and a strong cup of coffee, I'll be your guide on this wild journey from dusty tomes to the murky depths of postmodernism. In the midst of all the pretentious prose, there's a glimmer of insight: we're all in this together, united in our struggle to survive without losing our sanity.
READING
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Brinkley, Alan, John M. Giggie, and Andrew J. Huebner. The Unfinished Nation: A Concise History of the American People. 10th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill Higher Education, 2022.
Alan Brinkley, a profound intellectual force in history, is the kind of professor who delves deep into the fabric of American politics. A bestselling author and former provost at Columbia, Brinkley's books are not just academic exercises but profound explorations into the New Deal, the Great Depression, and the American dream. From the Ivy League to Oxford, this man has immersed himself in history, unearthing the truth with a precision that cuts through the fog of political rhetoric. Brinkley's academic career is a beacon of knowledge, illuminating the darkest corners of history.
And then there is John M. Giggie, a Southern history powerhouse who plunges into the weighty past of the Civil Rights Movement, lynching, and race in the Deep South. With a PhD from Princeton, he is the kind of scholar who does not just teach about the past—he compels you to grapple with it, to confront the violence and memory that still haunt the American South. His courses are not leisurely walks through history; they are potent reminders, grenades hurled at anyone too comfortable with the sanitized version of the past. Meanwhile, Andrew Huebner, a man who blends war, culture, and American identity like a potent cocktail, is in his intellectual trench, unpacking the harsh realities of war's impact on society. Huebner exposes the painful wounds of American history, dissecting everything from the brutality of WWI to the emotional scars that still linger. Together, these three scholars are not just documenting history—they are forcing us to confront it, heavy and unvarnished, in the modern world.
RUNDOWN
READING
- Brinkley Chapter 22: "The New Era."
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Brinkley, Alan, John M. Giggie, and Andrew J. Huebner. The Unfinished Nation: A Concise History of the American People. 10th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill Higher Education, 2022.
Alan Brinkley, a profound intellectual force in history, is the kind of professor who delves deep into the fabric of American politics. A bestselling author and former provost at Columbia, Brinkley's books are not just academic exercises but profound explorations into the New Deal, the Great Depression, and the American dream. From the Ivy League to Oxford, this man has immersed himself in history, unearthing the truth with a precision that cuts through the fog of political rhetoric. Brinkley's academic career is a beacon of knowledge, illuminating the darkest corners of history.
And then there is John M. Giggie, a Southern history powerhouse who plunges into the weighty past of the Civil Rights Movement, lynching, and race in the Deep South. With a PhD from Princeton, he is the kind of scholar who does not just teach about the past—he compels you to grapple with it, to confront the violence and memory that still haunt the American South. His courses are not leisurely walks through history; they are potent reminders, grenades hurled at anyone too comfortable with the sanitized version of the past. Meanwhile, Andrew Huebner, a man who blends war, culture, and American identity like a potent cocktail, is in his intellectual trench, unpacking the harsh realities of war's impact on society. Huebner exposes the painful wounds of American history, dissecting everything from the brutality of WWI to the emotional scars that still linger. Together, these three scholars are not just documenting history—they are forcing us to confront it, heavy and unvarnished, in the modern world.
RUNDOWN
- The 1920s saw rapid economic growth, driven by mass production and the rise of consumer culture, fueled by advertising and installment credit.
- Jazz, movies, sports, and radio created shared experiences and defined popular culture in the 1920s.
- Flappers symbolized the modern woman, embracing new fashion, jobs, and social freedoms that challenged traditional gender roles.
- Anti-immigrant attitudes led to restrictive laws like the National Origins Act of 1924, while the Ku Klux Klan targeted minorities and immigrants.
- The 1925 Scopes Trial exposed the fight between religious fundamentalism and modern science, symbolizing the era’s cultural divide.
- Pro-business policies and tax cuts dominated, but signs of trouble—like farm struggles, uneven wealth, and stock speculation—warned of the coming Great Depression.
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...."
"...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...."
In the chaotic theater of World War II, amidst the swirling tempest of uncertainty, the American labor movement stood at a pivotal juncture. Envision a nation ensnared by economic turmoil, its populace teetering on the precipice of poverty. Yet amid this tumult, a glint of hope flickered—a wartime economy promising prosperity, albeit with strings attached.
As the machinery of war churned into action, so did the job market, disgorging opportunities like a relentless assembly line. Suddenly, the marginalized found themselves thrust into the spotlight of employment, their pockets filled with newfound wealth. But behind the facade of patriotic fervor lurked a somber reality—a reality that shook the very bedrock of labor activism.
The call for unity against a shared foe became an enchanting melody that swayed even the staunchest of labor advocates. With the specter of war casting a long shadow, the CIO and AFL, stalwarts of worker solidarity, opted for cooperation with the establishment, fearing disruption to the fragile fabric of national unity. But, I would like you to be misled, for the unions' acquiescence did not escape notice.
Beneath the din of war, discontent simmered, seething like a pot of righteous anger. Strikes and walkouts punctuated the narrative, a rebellious gesture against the status quo. Yet, for every stride forward, there were counterforces determined to yank progress back into the quagmire of oppression.
Enter the establishment armed with stratagems and an unwavering resolve. Legislation was enacted, fists were clenched, and the working class was ensnared in a rigged game. Yet, they stood resolute in the face of adversity, a symbol of endurance amidst uncertainty.
But let's cut the crap, shall we? This ain't no fairy tale of triumph against all odds. No, this is a gritty saga of compromise and concession, where victories are fleeting, and defeat is all but assured. The American labor movement of the Second World War was a double-edged sword—a tale of sacrifice and betrayal, highs and lows, wrapped up in a neat package of patriotic propaganda.
So, the next time someone reminisces about bygone glories, remind them of the harsh realities lurking beneath the surface. In the annals of history, heroes are scarce, replaced by survivors clinging to the wreckage of a world gone awry. And in the end, that is the quintessential American tale of all.
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
As the machinery of war churned into action, so did the job market, disgorging opportunities like a relentless assembly line. Suddenly, the marginalized found themselves thrust into the spotlight of employment, their pockets filled with newfound wealth. But behind the facade of patriotic fervor lurked a somber reality—a reality that shook the very bedrock of labor activism.
The call for unity against a shared foe became an enchanting melody that swayed even the staunchest of labor advocates. With the specter of war casting a long shadow, the CIO and AFL, stalwarts of worker solidarity, opted for cooperation with the establishment, fearing disruption to the fragile fabric of national unity. But, I would like you to be misled, for the unions' acquiescence did not escape notice.
Beneath the din of war, discontent simmered, seething like a pot of righteous anger. Strikes and walkouts punctuated the narrative, a rebellious gesture against the status quo. Yet, for every stride forward, there were counterforces determined to yank progress back into the quagmire of oppression.
Enter the establishment armed with stratagems and an unwavering resolve. Legislation was enacted, fists were clenched, and the working class was ensnared in a rigged game. Yet, they stood resolute in the face of adversity, a symbol of endurance amidst uncertainty.
But let's cut the crap, shall we? This ain't no fairy tale of triumph against all odds. No, this is a gritty saga of compromise and concession, where victories are fleeting, and defeat is all but assured. The American labor movement of the Second World War was a double-edged sword—a tale of sacrifice and betrayal, highs and lows, wrapped up in a neat package of patriotic propaganda.
So, the next time someone reminisces about bygone glories, remind them of the harsh realities lurking beneath the surface. In the annals of history, heroes are scarce, replaced by survivors clinging to the wreckage of a world gone awry. And in the end, that is the quintessential American tale of all.
THE RUNDOWN
- During World War II, the American labor movement faced a big moment with the promise of more jobs and money, but with some catches.
- The war created lots of job opportunities, helping some people get better off financially, but it also showed some problems with how workers were treated.
- Even though people were asked to come together, some labor groups worked with the government to avoid causing trouble, although people noticed.
- Many workers were unhappy and protested by going on strike, but the government and bosses tried to stop them.
- The government made rules and used tricks to keep control, making it hard for workers to win, leading to small wins and big losses.
- The story of American workers during World War II is about making deals and giving in, with some moments of success but also a lot of tough realities hidden behind patriotic stories.
QUESTIONS
- Reflect on the portrayal of the American labor movement during World War II as a "double-edged sword" and a "tale of compromise and concession." Do you agree with this assessment? Why or why not?
- In what ways did World War II shape the narrative of patriotism and unity in the United States? How did this narrative influence perceptions of labor activism and the working class during the war?
- Discuss the concept of "bygone glories" versus the "harsh realities" of historical events, as highlighted in the passage. How might these contrasting perspectives impact our understanding of the American labor movement during World War II?
During the great depression, employment was scarce. In this photo, a giant billboard encourages traveling job seekers to look elsewhere for work.
Prepare to be transported into the captivating realm of historical films and videos. Brace yourselves for a mind-bending odyssey through time as we embark on a cinematic expedition. Within these flickering frames, the past morphs into a vivid tapestry of triumphs, tragedies, and transformative moments that have shaped the very fabric of our existence. We shall immerse ourselves in a whirlwind of visual narratives, dissecting the nuances of artistic interpretations, examining the storytelling techniques, and voraciously devouring historical accuracy with the ferocity of a time-traveling historian. So strap in, hold tight, and prepare to have your perception of history forever shattered by the mesmerizing lens of the camera.
WATCH
The Great Depression - Episode 1: A Job at Ford's (1993) - 51 min
WATCH
The Great Depression - Episode 1: A Job at Ford's (1993) - 51 min
THE RUNDOWN
In the tumultuous Roaring Twenties, Henry Ford loomed large as an industrial titan, his vision extending beyond automobile production to reshape society through assembly line efficiency. Amidst the marvel of progress, Ford's factories operated like well-oiled machines, with workers reduced to mere cogs in the wheel of capitalism, their dissent suppressed by a network of enforcers. However, Ford's autocratic reign crumbled with the onset of the Great Depression in 1929, casting Detroit, once his stronghold, into desolation and despair.
Yet, within the wreckage, Ford's laborers, though battered by adversity, stood defiant, embodying resilience amidst hardship. As the world grappled with recovery, it was these forgotten workers, with their unwavering commitment, who emerged as the true architects of a new era, forging not just automobiles but a lasting legacy beyond the confines of Ford's empire.
In the tumultuous Roaring Twenties, Henry Ford loomed large as an industrial titan, his vision extending beyond automobile production to reshape society through assembly line efficiency. Amidst the marvel of progress, Ford's factories operated like well-oiled machines, with workers reduced to mere cogs in the wheel of capitalism, their dissent suppressed by a network of enforcers. However, Ford's autocratic reign crumbled with the onset of the Great Depression in 1929, casting Detroit, once his stronghold, into desolation and despair.
Yet, within the wreckage, Ford's laborers, though battered by adversity, stood defiant, embodying resilience amidst hardship. As the world grappled with recovery, it was these forgotten workers, with their unwavering commitment, who emerged as the true architects of a new era, forging not just automobiles but a lasting legacy beyond the confines of Ford's empire.
Welcome to the mind-bending Key Terms extravaganza of our history class learning module. Brace yourselves; we will unravel the cryptic codes, secret handshakes, and linguistic labyrinths that make up the twisted tapestry of historical knowledge. These key terms are the Rosetta Stones of our academic journey, the skeleton keys to unlocking the enigmatic doors of comprehension. They're like historical Swiss Army knives, equipped with blades of definition and corkscrews of contextual examples, ready to pierce through the fog of confusion and liberate your intellectual curiosity. By harnessing the power of these mighty key terms, you'll possess the superhuman ability to traverse the treacherous terrains of primary sources, surf the tumultuous waves of academic texts, and engage in epic battles of historical debate. The past awaits, and the key terms are keys to unlocking its dazzling secrets.
KEY TERMS
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: 1929 Stock Market Crash Survival Game
Objective: The objective of this game is to help students understand the key events and challenges surrounding the 1929 Stock Market Crash. By making choices in different scenarios, students will experience how decisions during this critical period could impact personal finances and overall survival. The game serves as an interactive way to learn about economic history and the consequences of financial instability.
Instructions:
Activity: 1929 Stock Market Crash Survival Game
Objective: The objective of this game is to help students understand the key events and challenges surrounding the 1929 Stock Market Crash. By making choices in different scenarios, students will experience how decisions during this critical period could impact personal finances and overall survival. The game serves as an interactive way to learn about economic history and the consequences of financial instability.
Instructions:
- Click the Start Game button to begin.
- In each round, you will be presented with a scenario and two choices. Click on the option that you believe will help you survive the Stock Market Crash.
- Your choices will affect your savings. Pay attention to how your decisions impact your financial status.
- The game has 10 rounds, each representing a critical event or decision during the Stock Market Crash era.
- After the 10th round, you will see whether you survived the crash with some savings or lost everything.
- If you want to try again, click the Reset Game button to start over and explore different choices and outcomes.
1929 Stock Market Crash Survival Game
Welcome to the Roaring Twenties! You’re a stockbroker riding the wave of economic prosperity. Can you survive the 1929 Stock Market Crash without losing everything? Let’s find out!
Activity: The Great Depression Escape: New Deal Edition
Objective: By playing "The Great Depression Escape: New Deal Edition," students will develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and policies of the New Deal during the Great Depression. The game will enhance critical thinking and decision-making skills by encouraging students to evaluate historical events and government interventions with a blend of humor and education.
Instructions:
Hint: Pay attention to real-life policies and historical facts for the best outcome. Have fun and learn from FDR’s journey!
Objective: By playing "The Great Depression Escape: New Deal Edition," students will develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and policies of the New Deal during the Great Depression. The game will enhance critical thinking and decision-making skills by encouraging students to evaluate historical events and government interventions with a blend of humor and education.
Instructions:
- You are Franklin D. Roosevelt, tasked with leading the United States through the Great Depression.
- Each round presents a challenge from the 1930s with two options.
- Read each scenario carefully and choose the option you think FDR would select to address the problem.
- Correct choices will allow you to advance to the next round. Incorrect choices will create an alternate history disaster.
- Your goal is to successfully navigate all 10 rounds and emerge victorious as a historical hero!
- If you make a wrong choice, you can restart the game by clicking the Restart Game button at the end.
Hint: Pay attention to real-life policies and historical facts for the best outcome. Have fun and learn from FDR’s journey!
The Great Depression Escape: New Deal Edition
Welcome to 1933! You are Franklin D. Roosevelt, and it's time to save America from the Great Depression. Make wise choices to navigate the challenges ahead.
Ladies and gentlemen, gather 'round for the pièce de résistance of this classroom module - the summary section. As we embark on this tantalizing journey, we'll savor the exquisite flavors of knowledge, highlighting the fundamental ingredients and spices that have seasoned our minds throughout these captivating lessons. Prepare to indulge in a savory recap that will leave your intellectual taste buds tingling, serving as a passport to further enlightenment.
Reminiscing about the Great Depression evokes a somber yet intriguing reflection on a bygone era. It was a period marked by economic tumult, where the nation found itself acquainted with hardship and desolation. Imagine the exuberant twenties abruptly halted, akin to a jazz ensemble silenced by a disgruntled neighbor wielding a broom. The saga commenced with the infamous Stock Market Crash of '29, a spectacle of financial acrobatics that left wallets as barren as a politician's pledges. Yet amidst the gloom emerged Franklin D. Roosevelt, our protagonist, armed with his New Deal initiatives akin to a magician conjuring tricks from his sleeve. An influx of alphabet soup—WPA, CCC, NRA—sought to rejuvenate the economy at breakneck speed.
Simultaneously, in Harlem, amidst the dust and disillusionment, a cultural revolution simmered. The Harlem Renaissance burst forth, challenging societal norms and amplifying marginalized voices. Jazz reverberated through the streets, literature flourished, and the world took notice of voices once silenced. However, amid the glamour lurked the stark reality of systemic injustice. FDR's New Deal, though a salve for some, overlooked minorities relegated to the sidelines. The Harlem Renaissance, while a beacon of cultural achievement, faced the harsh reality of ongoing civil rights struggles.
Fast forward to today, and echoes of the past reverberate. Economic downturns persist, met with government intervention, yet racial disparities remain a poignant issue. It's as if history is caught in a perpetual loop, prompting reflection on our collective failures. Yet within this historical tapestry lies a glimmer of hope. By scrutinizing our past, flaws and all, we glean insights to navigate a brighter future. So here's to the Great Depression—a testament to human resilience amid adversity. May we heed its lessons, find solace in its absurdities, and forge a path toward progress.
or in other words:
Reminiscing about the Great Depression evokes a somber yet intriguing reflection on a bygone era. It was a period marked by economic tumult, where the nation found itself acquainted with hardship and desolation. Imagine the exuberant twenties abruptly halted, akin to a jazz ensemble silenced by a disgruntled neighbor wielding a broom. The saga commenced with the infamous Stock Market Crash of '29, a spectacle of financial acrobatics that left wallets as barren as a politician's pledges. Yet amidst the gloom emerged Franklin D. Roosevelt, our protagonist, armed with his New Deal initiatives akin to a magician conjuring tricks from his sleeve. An influx of alphabet soup—WPA, CCC, NRA—sought to rejuvenate the economy at breakneck speed.
Simultaneously, in Harlem, amidst the dust and disillusionment, a cultural revolution simmered. The Harlem Renaissance burst forth, challenging societal norms and amplifying marginalized voices. Jazz reverberated through the streets, literature flourished, and the world took notice of voices once silenced. However, amid the glamour lurked the stark reality of systemic injustice. FDR's New Deal, though a salve for some, overlooked minorities relegated to the sidelines. The Harlem Renaissance, while a beacon of cultural achievement, faced the harsh reality of ongoing civil rights struggles.
Fast forward to today, and echoes of the past reverberate. Economic downturns persist, met with government intervention, yet racial disparities remain a poignant issue. It's as if history is caught in a perpetual loop, prompting reflection on our collective failures. Yet within this historical tapestry lies a glimmer of hope. By scrutinizing our past, flaws and all, we glean insights to navigate a brighter future. So here's to the Great Depression—a testament to human resilience amid adversity. May we heed its lessons, find solace in its absurdities, and forge a path toward progress.
or in other words:
- The Great Depression was a time of economic struggle and hardship in the 1930s, abruptly ending the exuberance of the previous decade.
- Franklin D. Roosevelt introduced the New Deal, a series of government programs aimed at revitalizing the economy, symbolized by acronyms like WPA and CCC.
- Despite the economic turmoil, the Harlem Renaissance emerged as a cultural revolution in Harlem, celebrating art, literature, and music.
- However, racial injustice persisted, with minorities often overlooked by government relief efforts and facing ongoing civil rights challenges.
- Today, economic downturns and racial disparities continue, prompting reflection on historical failures and the need for progress.
- By examining our past, we can learn valuable lessons and strive for a better future, finding hope amidst adversity.
ASSIGNMENTS
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:
- 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.
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
THE RUNDOWN
In the depths of a tumultuous night, Dr. James Evans faced a predicament akin to those found in dime-store detective novels. Enter the enigmatic Shadow, casting a dark shadow over Dr. Evans's doorstep with a not-so-friendly death threat instead of pleasantries. Set against the backdrop of Long Island's lavish estates and hidden secrets, Dr. Evans reluctantly agrees to delve into a sinister plot to eliminate a wealthy banker, as revealed by the cryptic Shadow.
As they navigate the murky waters of this mystery, the Shadow unveils shocking revelations about Devil's Island, a place of personal dread for Dr. Evans. With cryptic hints and chilling messages heightening the tension, Dr. Evans embarks on a perilous journey through the darker recesses of the human psyche. Will they solve the case before it consumes them, emerging unscathed, or will they become cautionary tales in pulp fiction? Stay tuned for the next installment of "The Adventures of Dr. Evans and the Shadow," unfolding soon in the depths of imagination.
Hey, welcome to the work cited section! Here's where you'll find all the heavy hitters that inspired the content you've just consumed. Some might think citations are as dull as unbuttered toast, but nothing gets my intellectual juices flowing like a good reference list. Don't get me wrong, just because we've cited a source; doesn't mean we're always going to see eye-to-eye. But that's the beauty of it - it's up to you to chew on the material and come to conclusions. Listen, we've gone to great lengths to ensure these citations are accurate, but let's face it, we're all human. So, give us a holler if you notice any mistakes or suggest more sources. We're always looking to up our game. Ultimately, it's all about pursuing knowledge and truth.
Work Cited:
Work Cited:
- UNDER CONSTRUCTION
- (Disclaimer: This is not professional or legal advice. If it were, the article would be followed with an invoice. Do not expect to win any social media arguments by hyperlinking my articles. Chances are, we are both wrong).
- (Trigger Warning: This article or section, or pages it links to, contains antiquated language or disturbing images which may be triggering to some.)
- (Permission to reprint this blog post in whole or in part is granted, provided that the author (or authors) and www.ryanglancaster.com are appropriately cited.)
- This site is for educational purposes only.
- Disclaimer: This learning module was primarily created by the professor with the assistance of AI technology. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented, please note that the AI's contribution was limited to some regions of the module. The professor takes full responsibility for the content of this module and any errors or omissions therein. This module is intended for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional advice or consultation. The professor and AI cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from using this module.
- Fair Use: Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act of 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education, and research. Fair use is permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.
- Fair Use Definition: Fair use is a doctrine in United States copyright law that allows limited use of copyrighted material without requiring permission from the rights holders, such as commentary, criticism, news reporting, research, teaching, or scholarship. It provides for the legal, non-licensed citation or incorporation of copyrighted material in another author’s work under a four-factor balancing test.