The First World War · Spring Term

The Great Depression: Causes and Impact

Students will investigate the causes of the 1929 Wall Street Crash and its devastating economic and social impact globally and in Britain.

About This Topic

This topic explores the dramatic economic and social shifts of the inter-war years, from the 'Jazz Age' of the 1920s to the global Great Depression of the 1930s. Students investigate how the 1929 Wall Street Crash triggered a worldwide economic collapse, leading to mass unemployment and poverty in Britain's industrial heartlands (like Jarrow). The unit also examines how this economic misery fueled the rise of political extremism, both on the left and the right.

For Year 9, this is a study of the link between economics and politics. It connects the 'Roaring Twenties' to the rise of dictators and the road to WWII. This topic comes alive when students can physically model the 'boom and bust' cycle and the impact of unemployment through role play and collaborative problem-solving.

Active Learning Ideas

Simulation Game: The Great Depression Game

Students start with 'jobs' and 'savings'. As the 'crash' happens, they must make difficult choices about spending and debt. This helps them understand the 'multiplier effect' of an economic downturn.

⏱ 45 min·Whole Class

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Inquiry Circle: The Jarrow Crusade

Groups are given primary sources about the 1936 march from Jarrow to London. They must create a 'petition' and a series of placards that explain the marchers' demands to the government.

⏱ 40 min·Small Groups

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Gallery Walk: The Two Faces of the 20s

Stations feature the 'Flappers' and jazz clubs alongside the struggling coal mines and slums. Students must explain why the 1920s were 'roaring' for some but 'boring' (or worse) for others.

⏱ 30 min·Small Groups

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Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

The Great Depression only affected America.

What to Teach Instead

Because the world was economically linked, the crash in New York caused banks to fail and trade to stop across the globe. A 'global trade web' activity helps students see how the depression spread to Britain.

Common Misconception

The 1920s were a time of non-stop partying for everyone.

What to Teach Instead

In Britain, many traditional industries (coal, steel, textiles) were in decline throughout the 20s. Peer-led research into the 1926 General Strike helps students see the deep social divisions of the decade.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the Great Depression?

The immediate cause was the 1929 Wall Street Crash, but underlying problems included overproduction in factories and farms, risky bank loans, and a decline in international trade. This led to a 'vicious cycle' of falling prices and rising unemployment.

How did the Depression affect Britain?

Britain's exports collapsed, leading to mass unemployment, especially in the north of England, Scotland, and Wales. By 1932, nearly 3 million people were out of work, leading to poverty, hunger marches, and the 'means test' for benefits.

What was the Jarrow Crusade?

In 1936, 200 men from the town of Jarrow marched 300 miles to London to protest against the closing of their shipyard and the resulting 80% unemployment rate. It became a powerful symbol of the hardships of the 1930s.

How can active learning help students understand the Great Depression?

By participating in an economic simulation, students feel the 'panic' of losing their livelihood. This emotional connection helps them understand why people in the 1930s were so desperate that they began to listen to extremist political parties that promised 'work and bread'.

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