Great Depression

Definition

The Great Depression was a severe worldwide economic downturn that lasted from 1929 to the late 1930s, marked by massive unemployment, a drastic decline in industrial production, and a significant drop in consumer spending. This period had profound effects on American culture, influencing various art forms, including dance, as artists sought to reflect the struggles and resilience of society during this challenging time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The stock market crash of October 1929 is often cited as the beginning of the Great Depression, leading to widespread financial instability and bank failures.
2. Unemployment rates soared during this period, peaking at around 25% in the United States, which had a significant impact on families and communities.
3. The Great Depression prompted a wave of creativity in American dance, with performers using movement as a means to express feelings of despair and hope amid economic hardship.
4. Many dance companies struggled to survive financially during the Great Depression, leading to innovative collaborations and adaptations to keep performances accessible to the public.
5. The impact of the Great Depression on ballet led to a push for American themes and stories, influencing choreography that sought to resonate with contemporary audiences facing economic challenges.

Review Questions

• How did the Great Depression influence American dance styles and expressions during this period?
  • The Great Depression profoundly influenced American dance by inspiring choreographers and performers to reflect the social and economic struggles of the time. Many artists used dance as a form of expression to convey feelings of despair while also showcasing resilience and hope. This resulted in new styles that combined traditional forms with themes relevant to everyday life, illustrating how dance adapted to cultural shifts.
• In what ways did ballroom dancing evolve as a response to social changes during the Great Depression?
  • Ballroom dancing saw a shift during the Great Depression as it became more accessible and served as an escape from everyday hardships. People turned to social dance as a way to find joy and community amidst their struggles. The popularity of simpler, less expensive dances allowed people from various backgrounds to come together in shared experiences, fostering connections that provided comfort during tough times.
• Evaluate how early American ballet companies responded to the challenges posed by the Great Depression and what lasting impacts this had on their development.
  • Early American ballet companies faced significant challenges due to financial constraints during the Great Depression, forcing them to innovate in order to survive. Many companies began incorporating American themes into their repertoire, leading to a distinctive style that resonated with audiences. This adaptation not only helped sustain these companies through difficult times but also laid the groundwork for future American ballet traditions, emphasizing narratives that reflected societal issues and elevating American cultural identity within the art form.

Related terms

New Deal: A series of programs and reforms enacted by President Franklin D. Roosevelt aimed at providing relief for the unemployed and recovery for the economy during the Great Depression.

Dust Bowl: A period of severe dust storms in the 1930s that significantly damaged agriculture in the U.S., exacerbating the economic hardships of the Great Depression.

Social Realism: An artistic movement focused on depicting the everyday lives and struggles of working-class people, often used during the Great Depression to highlight social issues and injustices.