Great Depression

Definition

The Great Depression was a severe worldwide economic downturn that lasted from 1929 to the late 1930s, marked by widespread unemployment, deflation, and a collapse of the banking system. It had a profound impact on society and culture, influencing everything from art and literature to politics and entertainment, particularly in the realm of cinema.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Great Depression began after the Stock Market Crash of 1929, which wiped out millions of investors and caused banks to fail.
2. Unemployment rates soared during the Great Depression, reaching as high as 25% in the United States at its peak.
3. Many films produced during this time reflected themes of hardship, struggle, and resilience, often serving as both escapism and social commentary.
4. The Great Depression led to significant changes in government policy, including increased regulation of financial markets and the establishment of social safety nets.
5. Cinemas became a popular form of entertainment during the Great Depression as they offered affordable escapism for those facing economic hardship.

Review Questions

• How did the Great Depression influence classical Hollywood cinema in terms of themes and audience engagement?
  • The Great Depression had a significant impact on classical Hollywood cinema by shifting its themes toward hardship, resilience, and social issues. Filmmakers responded to the economic struggles faced by audiences by creating stories that reflected their realities, often portraying characters overcoming adversity. This engagement allowed audiences to find comfort and escape in movies, making cinema a vital cultural outlet during a time of crisis.
• In what ways did the New Deal policies affect the film industry during the Great Depression?
  • The New Deal policies had a considerable influence on the film industry by providing financial support through public works projects that included funding for film productions. This government intervention helped stabilize Hollywood during the economic downturn, leading to increased output and innovative storytelling. Additionally, films became a medium for promoting New Deal ideals, showcasing themes of hope and recovery while also reflecting contemporary social issues.
• Evaluate how societal changes brought on by the Great Depression shaped long-term trends in Hollywood cinema beyond the 1930s.
  • The societal changes initiated by the Great Depression laid a foundation for long-term trends in Hollywood cinema, including a focus on realism and social issues in storytelling. The experiences of economic hardship influenced filmmakers to create more relatable characters and narratives that resonated with audiences. This shift not only altered audience expectations but also led to an ongoing exploration of complex themes such as class struggle and moral dilemmas in American cinema, continuing well beyond the 1930s.

Related terms

Stock Market Crash of 1929: The event that triggered the Great Depression when the U.S. stock market crashed on October 29, 1929, leading to a massive loss of wealth and confidence in the economy.

New Deal: A series of programs and policies implemented by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in response to the Great Depression, aimed at economic recovery and social reform.

Dust Bowl: A severe drought during the 1930s that compounded the economic hardships of the Great Depression, particularly affecting farmers in the Southern Plains of the U.S.