Final answer:
The buying of consumer items on credit and the unequal distribution of wealth were key factors that contributed to the Great Depression. Overproduction and underconsumption also played a role in the economic downturn.
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the key aspects that contributed to the Great Depression was the buying of consumer items on credit. When the Depression hit, households struggling with job losses defaulted on their credit payments, causing stores to lay off more workers and leading to a halt in the economy. Another factor was the unequal distribution of wealth, as the majority of American families had no savings at all, which quickly led to homelessness and hunger when job losses occurred. Overproduction and underconsumption also played a role, as consumers both at home and abroad were unable to purchase goods, resulting in a decrease in trade and economic activity.