-
1929
The stock market crashes, beginning the Great Depression -
1930
The Hawley-Smoot Tariff Act is passed, further damaging the economy. -
1931
The Dust Bowl, caused by prolonged drought and poor farming practices, begins to take hold in the Great Plains. -
1932
The Bonus Army, a group of WWI veterans, marches on Washington for better compensation, and is violently dispersed by the military. -
1933
Franklin D. Roosevelt is inaugurated as President and launches the New Deal to try to address the economic crisis. -
1934
The Federal Housing Administration is established to help people buy homes. -
1935
The Social Security Act is passed, providing retirement benefits to workers. -
1936
The General Motors sit-down strike occurs, a pivotal moment in labor organizing. -
1937
The Supreme Court strikes down key parts of the New Deal, leading Roosevelt to propose packing the court. -
1938
The Fair Labor Standards Act is passed, establishing minimum wage and maximum hours.