The Great Depression was a dramatic, worldwide economic downturn beginning in some countries as early as 1928. The beginning of the Great Depression in the United States is associated with the stock market crash on October 29, 1929. The depression had devastating effects in both the industrialized countries and those which exported raw materials. International trade declined sharply, as did personal incomes, tax revenues, prices and profits. Cities all around the world were hit hard, especially those dependent on heavy industry. Construction was virtually halted in many countries. (Thanks Wikipedia.) During these times many Americans, read that as most Americans, went hungry, they would wait in bread lines for simple meals of soup and stale pieces of bread. People lost their homes and lived in the streets or in Shanty Towns. The dreams of the nation were dashed and many people felt hopeless. Think Gatsby, and then think the opposite.


In The Great Gatsby we experienced incredible wealth during America's most affluent time. Now in Of Mice and Men, which takes place in the mid- 1930s, we will see the incredible poverty, the complete reversal of America's fortune and a time when men were desperate for work. The American Dream has become a nightmare.