Great Depression Lecture Series: Land of Our Own?

A core tenet of the New Deal was to improve the economic standing of the nation’s farmers who had suffered from depressed commodity prices since the 1920s. Yet, the implementation of these programs was often skewed solely toward landowners. For the millions of non-landowning farmers—sharecroppers, tenant farmers, and farmworkers—there existed little to no avenues for assistance. Consequently, a debilitating cycle of debt, evictions, and displacements continued to plague this foundational section of American society. In the eighth installment of the Great Depression Lecture Series, we will examine the conditions afflicting these non-landowning farmers and how the New Deal failed to mitigate their suffering. In remembrance of the 250th birthday of the United States, this program series showcases the history of Wood County and as well as boosting the community spirit through outdoor activities and events!