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Bank Failures During Great Depression — Reading Comprehension

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D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.3.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

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This detailed history reading passage examines the causes, motivations, and impact of bank failures during the Great Depression. Students will analyze the complex relationship between banks, the public, and government responses, with a focus on multiple perspectives and primary source evidence. The passage models historical reasoning, integrates academic vocabulary, and meets C3 Framework and Common Core standards. Activities include a comprehension quiz, a writing prompt, a cause-and-effect graphic organizer, and a timeline of key events. The resource features a Spanish translation and read aloud audio, supporting diverse learners. Ideal for developing critical thinking and deep understanding of economic history, bank runs, and the New Deal. Aligned with D2.His.2.3-5, D2.His.3.3-5, RI.4.3, RI.4.4, W.4.2.

CONTENT PREVIEW

[Crowd of depositors gather in the rain outside Bank of United States after its failure]
Source: Library of Congress

The Great Depression was a period of severe economic crisis that began in 1929 in the United States and spread across the world. One of the most devastating problems during this time was the large number of bank failures. Between 1930 and 1933, more than 9,000 banks in the United States closed their doors. These closures led to the loss of millions of dollars in people's savings, creating fear and instability throughout the country.

Banks play a crucial role in any economy by safely holding people's money and making loans to help businesses grow. However, during the Great Depression, banks faced major financial challenges. Many banks had made risky loans and investments in the stock market. When the stock market crashed in October 1929, many borrowers could not pay back their loans. As a result, banks lost money and became insolvent, meaning they did not have enough funds to pay back all their depositors.

People were terrified that their banks would collapse, or shut down without returning their money. These fears led to bank runs, where large crowds rushed to withdraw their money at the same time. Unfortunately, banks often did not have enough cash on hand to meet everyone's demands. Because there was no deposit insurance, people lost all their savings if a bank failed. This loss had a huge impact on families and the wider economy, as people could no longer buy goods or pay for basic needs.

The effects of bank failures were felt across society. Businesses that depended on loans could not get the money they needed, causing many to close and lay off workers. Communities suffered high unemployment, and families struggled with poverty. The trust between the public and the banking system was badly damaged.

In response to this crisis, the government created new laws and agencies to restore confidence in banks. The most important change was the creation of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) in 1933. The FDIC promised to insure people's deposits up to a certain amount, making it safer to keep money in banks. These reforms helped stabilize the financial system and prevented future bank panics.

The story of bank failures during the Great Depression illustrates how interconnected the financial system is with people's daily lives. It also shows the importance of government action to protect citizens in times of crisis.

Interesting Fact: In just one year, 1933, nearly 4,000 U.S. banks failed—more than in any other year in American history.

When did the Great Depression begin?

1929194519121950

What happened during a bank run?

People rushed to withdraw moneyBanks gave out free loansBanks closed for holidaysBanks increased interest rates

Which agency was created in 1933?

FDICFBINASAEPA

Why did banks become insolvent?

Lost money from bad loansToo many employeesSold too many goodsRaised bank fees

How did bank failures affect families?

Lost their savingsGained more moneyGot free insuranceMoved to new banks

What was a main solution to bank failures?