The Great Depression 

The Great Depression of the nineteen thirties was one of the worst events in United States history. After the infamous 1929 stock market crash, the economy completely fell apart.

Farm foreclosure sale (c. 1933)

Thirteen million people lost their jobs and could not find work. Banks and businesses failed, leaving the entire county in great need.

A bread line in New York City

In the absence of substantial government relief programs, free food distribution to large numbers of unemployed people was made possible with private funds.
 

Walking 30 miles to visit family in Santa Fe,
Chomita, New Mexico (c. May, 1935)