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🇺🇸AP US History Review

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The Great Depression

The Great Depression

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examWritten by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025

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Following the economic success of the roaring twenties, the United States was struck with a stock market plunge that wrecked the economy. Millions of Americans were left without jobs, homes, food, and money. Infamous “Hoovervilles” popped up across the nation, and there was no recovery in sight. The effects of the Great Depression were felt worldwide and it took years to recover from the widespread poverty.