THE WORST DEPRESSION

OF MODERN HISTORY

Task 10. Mind The

Issues
 Guide Questions
1. What is the Wall Street Crash? What is another term synonymous with
Wall Street?

The Wall Street Crash refers to the stock market crash that occurred on
October 29, 1929, in the United States. It is also commonly known as the
"Black Tuesday." This event marked the beginning of the Great Depression,
a severe worldwide economic downturn that lasted throughout the 1930s.
Another term synonymous with Wall Street is "The Crash of 1929."
2. What happened during the Great Depression?

The Great Depression was a severe economic crisis that

took place globally during the 1930s. It began with the
Wall Street Crash in 1929 and had widespread effects on
economies, businesses, and individuals. The Great
Depression was characterized by high unemployment
rates, significant declines in industrial production, a
severe contraction in international trade, deflation, bank
failures, and a general sense of economic despair. It was
one of the most severe economic downturns in history.
3. What is meant by the line "the Roaring Twenties" was put to a halt
because of the Great Depression?

The term "the Roaring Twenties" refers to the period of

economic prosperity and cultural dynamism that occurred in
the United States during the 1920s. It was characterized by
significant technological advancements, increased
consumerism, and a booming stock market. However, the Great
Depression abruptly halted this era of economic growth and
prosperity. The crash of the stock market in 1929 and the
subsequent economic downturn brought an end to the
exuberance and optimism of the Roaring Twenties.
4. Does the article say that the Wall Street Crash caused the Depression? Explain
your answer.

It specifically states that the Wall Street Crash caused the

Great Depression. However, the Wall Street Crash of 1929 is
widely regarded as one of the major causes or triggers of the
Great Depression. The crash led to a significant loss of wealth,
a decline in consumer spending, and a loss of confidence in the
economy, which contributed to the downward spiral of the
global economy during the 1930s. Other factors, such as
overproduction, unequal distribution of wealth, and financial
instability, also played a role in the onset and severity of the
Great Depression.
5. Is this economic phenomenon still happening today in the US? Give
examples?

It was cut off in September 2021, the United States has not
experienced a similar economic phenomenon on the scale of
the Great Depression since then. However, it's important to
note that economic cycles and downturns are inherent to
market economies, and recessions do occur periodically. Since
the Great Depression, the U.S. has experienced several
recessions, including the recessions of the early 1980s, early
1990s, early 2000s (dot-com bubble burst), and the global
financial crisis of 2008-2009. These events impacted the
economy but were not as severe or prolonged as the Great
Depression.
6. In the history of the Philippines, has there been a similar event like the
Wall Street Crash and Great Depression?

It was cut off in September 2021, the United States has not
experienced a similar economic phenomenon on the scale of
the Great Depression since then. However, it's important to
note that economic cycles and downturns are inherent to
market economies, and recessions do occur periodically. Since
the Great Depression, the U.S. has experienced several
recessions, including the recessions of the early 1980s, early
1990s, early 2000s (dot-com bubble burst), and the global
financial crisis of 2008-2009. These events impacted the
economy but were not as severe or prolonged as the Great
Depression.
7. In the "Death of A Salesman," Willy Loman is a salesman who depended
on sales to earn a living. How is his being a salesman affected by the Great
Depression?
In "Death of a Salesman" by Arthur Miller, Willy Loman, the
protagonist, is a salesman struggling to make a living. The story is
set during the Great Depression, which significantly affects
Willy's profession and livelihood. The economic downturn and the
decline in consumer spending make it increasingly challenging for
Willy to generate sales and earn a steady income. He faces
financial difficulties, job instability, and a diminishing sense of
self-worth, reflecting the broader impact of the Great Depression
on individuals working in various industries, including sales.
8. How will this article help explain the financial difficulty experienced by
the Lomans?

The article on the Wall Street Crash and the Great Depression can help explain the financial
difficulties experienced by the Lomans by providing historical context and insights into the economic
challenges of that time. By understanding the causes and consequences of the Wall Street Crash and
the subsequent Great Depression, readers can gain an understanding of the broader economic
climate that affected individuals like Willy Loman.
During the Great Depression, the economy suffered a significant downturn, resulting in widespread
unemployment, reduced consumer spending, and a general sense of economic despair. This economic
environment made it extremely challenging for individuals like Willy Loman, who relied on sales to
earn a living. With diminished consumer purchasing power, fewer business opportunities, and
increased competition, salespeople faced considerable difficulties in generating income and
maintaining stable employment.

By examining the historical context of the Great Depression, readers can gain insights into the
financial struggles faced by characters like Willy Loman in "Death of a Salesman." The article may
provide details about the impact of the Wall Street Crash on various sectors of the economy, the
decline in consumer spending, and the resulting challenges faced by salespeople during that time.
9. How does the Great Depression connect with the American Dream?

During the Roaring Twenties, the American Dream seemed

achievable with a booming stock market and a sense of
boundless economic growth. However, the Great Depression
shattered this illusion as millions of people lost their jobs,
homes, and savings. The economic crisis exposed the
vulnerabilities and inequalities of the American economic
system, highlighting the contrast between the idealized vision
of success and the harsh reality of economic hardship and
inequality. In "Death of a Salesman," Willy Loman's pursuit
of the American Dream is central, as the play explores his
disillusionment and struggles within a flawed economic system.
The Great Depression serves as the backdrop for examining
the disintegration of the American Dream and its impact on
individuals like Willy Loman.
Thank You!
BY: Group 10