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 * Not finished*The Effect of The Great Depression on families.

The Great Depression was a tragic event that began in 1929 and lasted for 12 long years. Some men, women, and children went without proper clothes, food and water. People were unemployed and had very little money and some could no longer support their families. The effect of the Great Depression on families in the 1930’s changed their lifestyles in so many ways, whether good or bad. It affected everyone in a different way. Many people were affected by the Great Depression while some were not bothered by it.

The stock market crash has been said to be the main reason for the Great Depression. Instead, the failure of the banking system did the most harm. On Wednesday October 23rd, 1929, several sell orders arrived and the stock markets lost $4 billion that day. By the next Monday and Tuesday, also known as Black Monday and Black Tuesday, the market lost 13% and 12% of its value on each of the days. An average of 500 banks failed each year and about 750,000 farmers declared bankruptcy.

The Great Depression affected many American families in so many ways. Traditional roles within a family changed in the 1930’s. About 25% of Americans were unemployed and had no money. Men were found without jobs and had to rely on their wives and children to make ends meet. On the other hand, women found their status enhanced by their new roles but still suffered in some way. They usually worked as domestic servants, clerks, textile workers and other occupations. This employment increased their power and status in their home. Children were the ones who suffered the most in the Great Depression. They went without clothes, food, and water because their parents could not afford to take proper care of them. In the winter, children went without warm clothes. Men, women and children suffered greatly during the Great Depression in many ways and had some horrible times.

In the 1930’s, American families reacted by pulling together, making due with what they had, and turning to friends and family for help and support. They tried to do everything they could to provide for their families and themselves no matter how difficult is was. Other families seemed to have no idea what to do and fell apart. The Great Depression changed many lifestyles of Americans.

Nelson, Cary. //The Great Depression//. Print. []

Rosenburg, Jennifer. //The Great Depression//. 2011. Print. []