Dorothea Lange: Photos of the Dust Bowl — Reading Comprehension

Dorothea Lange was a photographer who helped people see the truth about life during the Great Depression. The Great Depression began in 1929 and lasted for many years. Many Americans lost their jobs and homes. Families had to travel far to look for work and food.

In 1935, Dorothea Lange worked for the government. She was sent to take pictures of people who were struggling. She drove across the country, carrying her camera, and stopped to meet families living in tents and cars. Lange took photos to show how hard life was for many Americans.

One of her most famous photos is called 'Migrant Mother'. It shows a worried mother holding her children. The family had just picked crops in California. They had little food and no place to live. Lange wrote down what the mother told her: 'We just existed. We survived.' This photo helped people understand how serious the problem was.

The government used Lange's photos to tell others about the needs of poor families. Her pictures made many Americans want to help. Some people sent food and money. The government made new programs to give jobs and homes to those who needed them. This was called the New Deal. It helped many families get back on their feet.

Lange’s work showed that a photograph can be more than just a picture. It can be a way to tell a story and create change. Her photos are still important today. They remind us to care for others and to help when we see people in need.

Interesting Fact: Dorothea Lange continued to take photos during World War II. She showed what life was like for Japanese Americans in camps.

Who was Dorothea Lange?

When did the Great Depression begin?

What is 'Migrant Mother'?

Why did Lange take photos?

How did her photos help people?

What was the 'New Deal'?

Dorothea Lange took photos in World War II. True or False?

What does 'survived' mean?