Life during the Depression

Life during the Depression

Overview

The Great Depression began in 1929, drastically affecting the economic and social landscape of the UK.
The depression caused mass unemployment and pushed many into poverty.
Economic disparity increased, particularly between industrial North England and the comparatively prosperous South.

Economic Impact

Nationwide, around one in four workers were unemployed at the height of the Depression in 1932.
Sectors heavily reliant on export such as shipbuilding, iron and steel, and textiles, were most affected.
The Jarrow Crusade of 1936, where unemployed shipyard workers marched from Jarrow to London, encapsulated the desperation of this period.

Government Response

The government was initially reluctant to intervene directly, believing in laissez-faire economics (non-interference in economic affairs).
The introduction of the “Means Test”, designed to assess who was deserving of unemployment assistance, was heavily criticised.
In response to escalating crisis, the government launched public works programs such as road building to create jobs.

The Depression brought widespread poverty, malnutrition, and poor living conditions.
Untouched by the Depression, the relatively prosperous South East and Midlands saw a growth in service industries and light engineering.
The divide between the affluent South and deprived North widened, resulting in internal migration in search of work.

Cultural Impact

The harsh reality of the Depression was reflected in literature and visual arts.
The period saw the rise of the British documentary film movement, with filmmakers such as John Grierson portraying the challenges faced by ordinary Britons.

Political Impact

The economic hardships led to a shift in political allegiances and the fall of the second Labour government.
The National Government, a coalition of the three major parties, was formed in 1931 under Ramsay MacDonald.
The Communist Party grew throughout the 1930s as people looked for radical alternatives.