Question

America and the Great Depression—How was America affected by the Great Depression? Include information on America’s change in GDP, unemployment rates, national debt, and effects on its international trade (both import and export). When did America start to recover from the Great Depression, and what were the changes that brought about this recovery? Cite specific programs, laws, individuals, executive orders, and so on that were primarily responsible.

Answer 1

Answer and

The Great Depression was a severe economic downturn that affected the United States and other countries around the world in the 1930s. In America, the depression began with the stock market crash of 1929 and lasted until the late 1930s or early 1940s.

The impact of the Great Depression on America was profound. GDP (Gross Domestic Product) fell by almost 30%, and unemployment rates rose to 25%. The national debt increased significantly due to government spending on relief programs and other measures aimed at combating the depression. International trade was also severely affected, with both imports and exports declining sharply.

The recovery from the Great Depression began in the mid-1930s, thanks to a combination of government intervention and increased private investment. One of the most significant programs that helped bring about recovery was the New Deal, a series of reforms and economic programs implemented by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Some specific measures included in the New Deal were:

The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), which provided work for unemployed young men in conservation and forestry projects.

The Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA), which aimed to boost agricultural prices by paying farmers to reduce production.

The National Recovery Administration (NRA), which sought to stabilize prices and wages through industry codes and collective bargaining.