Decade - 1930s

In the 1930s, key proponents of economic justice included figures like Franklin D. Roosevelt, who championed the New Deal, and economists such as John Maynard Keynes. They advocated for measures like social security, labor rights, public works programs, and regulations to stabilize the economy and reduce inequality. These policies aimed to address the hardships of the Great Depression by providing relief, fostering economic recovery, and promoting social welfare. Additionally, activists from labor unions and various social movements pushed for reforms to secure workers' rights and improve living conditions.

In the 1930s, television was still in its infancy, and very few households had access to it. The major channels we think of today did not exist; instead, broadcasts were limited and experimental. In the U.S., early television programming was primarily produced by local stations, with some significant broadcasts by networks like NBC and CBS beginning in the late 1930s. Most entertainment during this time was still consumed through radio, films, and live theater.

In the 1930s, during the Great Depression, many families faced food scarcity and relied on inexpensive staples. Common foods included bread, potatoes, beans, rice, and seasonal vegetables. Canned goods were also popular due to their affordability and long shelf life. Meals often featured simple, hearty dishes like soups, stews, and casseroles to stretch limited resources.

In the 1930s, black people in the United States faced systemic racism and discrimination rooted in a long history of slavery and segregation. Jim Crow laws enforced racial segregation in the South, relegating black individuals to inferior social and economic status. The Great Depression exacerbated these inequalities, as job competition intensified, leading to increased hostility and violence against black communities. Additionally, discriminatory practices in housing, education, and employment perpetuated cycles of poverty and disenfranchisement.

In the 1930s, little girls faced various restrictions, particularly regarding their clothing and behavior. Societal norms dictated that they wear dresses and adhere to traditional feminine roles, which often limited their participation in physical activities and sports. Additionally, there were expectations for them to embody modesty and decorum, reinforcing the idea that they should be polite and submissive. These restrictions reflected broader gender norms of the time that sought to confine women to domestic spheres.

Many people were against unions in the 1930s due to a combination of fear and misinformation. Employers often viewed unions as a threat to their authority and profitability, leading to resistance and sometimes violent opposition. Additionally, some individuals believed that unions pushed for radical political agendas, associating them with communism and socialism. The economic climate of the Great Depression also fueled concerns about job security, making some workers hesitant to support collective bargaining efforts.

The 1930s were marked by the Great Depression, which significantly influenced popular culture. People sought escapism through film, with Hollywood producing iconic movies like "Gone with the Wind" and "The Wizard of Oz." Radio became a dominant medium, with programs like "Amos 'n' Andy" and musical broadcasts providing entertainment and a sense of community. Additionally, the decade saw the rise of swing music and big bands, reflecting both the struggles and the resilience of the era.

World War II began on September 1, 1939, when Germany invaded Poland. The invasion commenced at 4:45 AM local time with a coordinated assault that marked the start of the conflict in Europe. This act of aggression prompted Britain and France to declare war on Germany shortly thereafter.

In the 1930s, architects in the United States earned varying salaries depending on their experience and location. On average, entry-level architects made around $1,200 to $2,000 annually, while more experienced professionals could earn between $3,000 and $5,000. The Great Depression significantly impacted the profession, leading to reduced demand for architectural services and lower overall salaries.

Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidency in the 1930s is often viewed positively due to his New Deal policies, which aimed to combat the Great Depression and provide relief, recovery, and reform. His initiatives helped stabilize the economy, reduce unemployment, and restore public confidence. However, critics argue that some of his policies expanded federal power too much and did not fully resolve the economic crisis. Overall, Roosevelt's leadership significantly shaped American society and government during a challenging era.

The two-cent stamp was first issued in the United States on July 1, 1863. It was part of a series that included various denominations and was primarily used for mailing letters. The most famous design of the two-cent stamp featured a portrait of George Washington.

Adolf Hitler blamed various groups for Germany's financial issues in the 1930s, most notably the Jewish population, whom he scapegoated for the country's economic struggles and the hardships stemming from the Treaty of Versailles. He also targeted communists and political opponents, portraying them as responsible for Germany's social and economic turmoil. This rhetoric was a key part of Nazi propaganda, which aimed to unify the German people against perceived enemies and restore national pride.

Free time in the 1930s was often shaped by the economic constraints of the Great Depression, which limited leisure activities for many. People turned to affordable pastimes, such as listening to radio shows, attending local events, playing board games, and participating in community activities. Movies became a popular escape, with cinemas offering affordable tickets. Despite financial hardships, social gatherings and outdoor activities like picnics and hiking provided a sense of community and enjoyment.

Life for men in the 1930s was heavily influenced by the Great Depression, leading to widespread unemployment and economic hardship. Many men took on multiple jobs or engaged in informal work to support their families, often facing significant societal pressure to be the primary breadwinners. Traditional gender roles were prominent, with expectations for men to be stoic and resilient in the face of adversity. Despite the challenges, some men found community and solidarity through labor movements and social organizations aimed at improving their circumstances.

In the 1930s, infamous gangster George "Machine Gun" Kelly was involved in the kidnapping of a businessman named Charles F. Urschel in 1933. Kelly and his gang abducted Urschel for ransom, which ultimately led to his release after a significant ransom was paid. While Kelly was implicated in other criminal activities, the Urschel kidnapping is the most notable and documented case associated with him.

In the 1930s, Japanese actions in China, particularly the invasion of Manchuria in 1931 and the subsequent Second Sino-Japanese War starting in 1937, led to widespread devastation and atrocities, including the infamous Nanjing Massacre. These actions intensified anti-Japanese sentiment in China and contributed to the unification of various Chinese factions against a common enemy. Additionally, Japan's aggression in China strained its relations with Western powers, ultimately influencing the dynamics of World War II in the Asia-Pacific region.

Migrant farmers in the 1930s were individuals and families, often displaced by the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl, who traveled from one region to another in search of agricultural work. Many were from the Southern United States, particularly Oklahoma and Texas, and sought employment in California's fertile fields. These workers faced harsh living conditions, exploitation, and discrimination, but they played a crucial role in the agricultural economy during that era. Their struggles were highlighted in literature and photography, notably in works like John Steinbeck's "The Grapes of Wrath."

In the 1930s, notable political leaders included Franklin D. Roosevelt, who served as the President of the United States and implemented the New Deal in response to the Great Depression. In Germany, Adolf Hitler rose to power as Chancellor, establishing a totalitarian regime. Other significant figures included Benito Mussolini in Italy, who led the Fascist government, and Joseph Stalin, who consolidated power in the Soviet Union. These leaders played pivotal roles in shaping global politics during this tumultuous decade.

The value of a 20 cent Knoxville World's Fair stamp can vary depending on its condition, rarity, and demand among collectors. Generally, if the stamp is in mint condition and well-preserved, it may be worth more than its face value, potentially ranging from a few dollars to over $10. However, prices can fluctuate based on market trends and the specific features of the stamp. For an accurate valuation, it's best to consult a stamp catalog or a professional appraiser.

The value of a 25-cent steamboat stamp largely depends on its condition, rarity, and demand among collectors. Generally, common examples of this stamp may be worth only a few dollars, while rare or well-preserved versions could fetch significantly higher prices at auctions or from collectors. To determine its exact value, it's advisable to consult a stamp catalog or seek expert appraisal.

In the 1930s, Native Americans in the United States faced significant discrimination and marginalization. The Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 aimed to reverse some of the damage caused by previous policies of assimilation and land allotment, allowing tribes to establish self-governance and restore some of their land. However, many Native Americans continued to experience poverty, lack of access to education and healthcare, and systemic injustices. Overall, the decade was marked by both attempts at reform and ongoing struggles for rights and recognition.

In the 1930s, common swear words included "damn," "hell," and "bastard," reflecting the more conservative social norms of the time. Stronger profanity, such as "shit" and "fuck," was generally considered vulgar and was less likely to be used in polite conversation or mainstream media. The era also saw the rise of euphemisms, as people often avoided direct cursing, opting for phrases like "darn" or "heck" instead. Overall, while profanity existed, it was often moderated by the cultural expectations of the period.

People left the Great Plains during the 1930s primarily due to the Dust Bowl, a severe drought that caused massive dust storms and devastated agricultural production. The combination of poor farming practices, over-cultivation, and extreme weather conditions rendered the land uninhabitable and unproductive. Many families, particularly those from Oklahoma and surrounding states, migrated westward to seek better opportunities, often heading to California in search of work and a more stable living environment. This mass exodus was emblematic of the broader economic struggles of the Great Depression.

Family life in 1930s Britain was shaped by economic hardship due to the Great Depression, leading to financial strain for many households. Families often lived in close quarters, with multiple generations under one roof, and traditional gender roles were prevalent, with men as breadwinners and women managing the home. Despite these challenges, community and family ties were strong, with social gatherings and shared activities providing support and resilience. The decade also saw the rise of new forms of entertainment, which offered families a reprieve from their daily struggles.

A typical day for migrant workers in the 1930s often began before dawn, as they would rise early to prepare for a long day of labor in the fields. They would work from sunrise to sunset, performing grueling tasks such as picking crops, often in harsh weather conditions. The workers usually lived in temporary housing, like tents or makeshift shacks, and faced challenges such as low wages, poor living conditions, and limited access to healthcare. After a long day of work, they would gather to share meals and stories, fostering a sense of community amidst their struggles.