One thing is certain, culture evolves through change. In the 1930s, the American culture changed quickly for many. The crash of the stock market in October of 1929, left many investors in desperation. Businesses began to close, and the families who worked in those businesses were without a source of income. The Roaring 20s, full of excess and extravagance, gave way to the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression.

By 1932, millions of Americans had lost their jobs. Foreclosures rose sharply, and over 2 million families lost their homes and farms. To add to the misery, severe drought hit the Great Plains States. More farms shut down, and people flocked to the over-crowded cities in hopes of finding a job and a place to live.

Changes in Government

Franklin Roosevelt won the Presidential election in 1932. He introduced the country to his New Deal Legislation. Under this program the government became more responsible for caring for the underprivileged, and it set about to regulate the nation’s economy, something Americans have come to expect.

Among the programs introduced by Roosevelt are the Tennessee Valley Authority Act, which created jobs for many by building a series of dams along the Tennessee River to produce hydroelectric power for the residents along the Tennessee Valley. Some farmers were encouraged to allow their fields to lay fallow to lower the surplus of stockpiled agricultural products, driving up prices. In addition, the National Industrial Recovery Act gave workers the right to unionize, bargain for higher wages, and to seek better working conditions. Other programs included social security for the elderly and disabled.

Changes in Entertainment

Although these measures boosted moral, they did little in bringing the Depression era to a halt. Americans needed an escape from their daily troubles. Hollywood heard the cry of the people and released movie after movie, which led some to pursue the glamorous lifestyle of acting. Spectator sports like baseball and horse racing also produced heroes for the nation to cheer on to victory. Americans rooted for the underdog because most could relate to the struggles.

Since most families couldn’t afford to go to the movies or sporting events, the family would sit around the radio waiting to listen to their favorite broadcasts. Radio programs such as The Lone Ranger, Amos and Andy, and George and Gracie Burns were among the most popular.

Changes in Fashions

The 1930s were a time of struggle for most, so clothing had to last for several years. Styles remained the same season after season. Women reverted to wearing simple print dresses with a defined waist and a modest length and practical shoes. Men’s fashions changed little as well. Pants with high waistbands and wide legs worn with buttoned shirts and a hat were common among well-dressed American men.

Changes in Expectations

The economic recovery of the era that earned the name The Great Depression came slowly. The introduction of Roosevelt’s New Deal, while some say was not aggressive enough, had an impact on the recovery of the American economy. However, once the unemployment rate began to drop down to 1920 rates, conservative legislators voted to reduce the number of government programs that aided the needy. Social Security is one program that survived. Although some Americans felt skeptical, these programs gave most a sense of security and hope for the future.