A Crossroads Resource

Unit IX: Boom and Bust: 1921-1933

Question/Problem 4: What were the economic problems during the 1920s that led to the Stock Market Crash?

Writing a Letter

Directions: You will assume the role of an American living in July 1929. Write a letter to an individual (President of the U.S., editor of a newspaper, a relative or friend, etc.). In this letter:

1) Discuss the economic situation in America in 1929.
2) Predict what may soon happen in America if no changes take place.

Choose to be one of the following:

1. Farmer in the midwest
2. Widow with six children in a city
3. Wife of a factory worker who has been laid off
4. Small businessman
5. Another choice with teacher approval

Your letter will be graded on how well you integrate the economic problems of the period into your letter and present the point of view of the writer.

Back To Question #4