Discussion

Read "The Human Experience of the Depression" on p. 258 (Gateway textbook)

You have now read about the nightmare of the Great Depression. What should the government have done, if anything? First think it through by writing your answer on your white board, then share with your partner.

Read "President Hoover Fails to Halt the Depression" and "Hoover's Response: Too Little, Too Late" (pp. 259-260) and answer the following question in your notes in your own words:

How did Hoover and his advisors believe the federal government should respond to the Depression and why?

​Read "Hoover Rejects Direct Relief..." and "The Reconstruction Finance Corporation..." (pp. 260) and answer the following questions in your notes in your own words:

Did Hoover support direct payments to the needy? Explain.
Eventually Hoover agreed to create a government agency to make loans to help the economy. What was it called and how was it supposed to help?

Read "Public Frustration Grows" (pp. 260-261) and answer the following question in your notes in your own words:

Who made up the "Bonus Army" and what did they want?
How did President Hoover respond to their demonstration?

Discussion

Would you have supported Hoover's actions against the "Bonus Army"? Write your answer on your white board first and then discuss with your partner when ready.

Read "The 'Dust Bowl'" (pp. 261-262) and then answer the following questions in your notes in your own words:

What was the "Dust Bowl" and what caused it?
How did it affect farmers on the Great Plains?