Historic Context : Great Depression 1930s
Even though America was in the Great Depression, the wealthy and business people still traveled. Technological advances kept Americans excited about the possibilities of air travel. But there still was a divide between those few who could afford to fly and the general population.
"The Great Depression lasted from 1929-1941, though some also say its true end was at the end of World War II. It is seen as the greatest financial catastrophe of the entire 20th century, the only event even approaching its disastrous nature being the Great Recession of the late 2000s. "
— STEVE FIORILLO 'The Street' "Great Depression: Causes, Effects and Timeline"
"Despite the Great Depression, air transportation experienced phenomenal growth and change from the late 1920s through the 1930s, before U.S. entry into World War II intervened.
Passenger service took root and grew, and air routes spread across the country. But because air travel was so expensive, only the wealthy and business travelers flew. The flying experience improved but remained an often uncomfortable adventure."
— Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum "America By Air"
Graphic: The Street https://www.thestreet.com/politics/great-depression-causes-14663720
"World’s Highest Standard of Living" by Margaret Bourke-White, 1937.
Food line in Louisville, KY.
Photo: Art Institute of Chicago, Courtesy of the estate of Margaret Bourke-White
