The Great Depression in 1930s America was an unprecedented time of economic collapse. Government response to high unemployment rates and banking system failures resulted in the creation of the New Deal, laws and programs to revive the economy and prevent the likelihood of another depression occurring in the future.

Social Security Act

The Social Security Act was passed in 1935 to allow social insurance for the elderly living in poverty as well as unemployment insurance for members of an able-bodied workforce unable to find employment.

Works Progress Administration

Created in 1935, the Works Progress Administration (WPA) provided jobs through a series of public works projects, including the building of bridges, roads, parks and art facilities. From its inception in 1935 through 1943, the WPA provided nearly eight million jobs for unemployed Americans.

Agricultural Adjustment Act

The Agricultural Adjustment Act was passed in May 1933 with the intending of providing subsidies to farmers to reduce their planting areas, under the theory that fewer crops would reduce surplus and increase crop prices and farm economic stability. The tax generated to pay the incentives was ultimately declared unconstitutional, and amendments were made to the Act in 1938.

Tennessee Valley Authority

Created in May 1933, the Tennessee Valley Authority created jobs for thousands of unemployed workers. The program built dams and power plant that supplied electricity to the rural parts of seven Southern states. This government-owned power company raised standard of living in poor rural communities, providing many families with electric power for the first time.

Civilian Conservation Corps

The Civilian Conservations Corps (CCC) was created in 1933 to teach unemployed men vocational skills that they used to preserve and develop the country's natural resources. The CCC combated soil erosion planting trees, especially in states affected by the Dust Bowl. In addition, the CCC battled forest fires and created numerous campgrounds on national park land.

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Liberalism at High Noon: The New Deal

What Ended The Great Depression?

The Great Depression and New Deal, 1929-1940s