The Great Depression and Dust Bowl
America's Greatest Economic and Environmental Crisis 1929-1939 Grade 7 History
What Was the Great Depression?
The worst economic downturn in American history Lasted from 1929 to 1939 Millions of people lost their jobs and homes Banks failed and businesses closed 25% unemployment rate at its peak
What Caused the Dust Bowl?
Severe drought in the Great Plains (1930s) Poor farming practices removed natural grass Strong winds picked up loose soil Created massive dust storms called 'black blizzards' Affected parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Colorado
Comparing the Great Depression and Dust Bowl
{"left":"Economic crisis caused by stock market crash and bank failures\nEnvironmental disaster caused by drought and poor farming\nAffected entire United States\nMainly affected Great Plains states","right":"Lasted about 10 years (1929-1939)\nLasted about 8 years (1930-1938)\nLed to New Deal government programs\nLed to new farming and conservation practices"}
Voices from the Dust Bowl
'The impact is like a shovelful of fine sand flung against the face.' - A witness describing a dust storm
Life During Hard Times
Think-Pair-Share Activity: How do you think families survived during the Great Depression and Dust Bowl? Discuss with a partner, then share with the class Consider: food, shelter, work, and hope
Lessons and Legacy
Government created programs to help people in need New farming methods prevent soil erosion Social Security system still helps Americans today Showed importance of environmental conservation Demonstrated American resilience and community spirit
1 more slide available after you open the deck.
Download all 8 slides