An overview of the Dust Bowl in the 1930s, its impact on farmers, and government efforts to address the crisis.
In the 1930s, a serious drought struck the Great Plains, which includes states like Oklahoma, Texas, and Kansas. Farmers had tilled the land for years, removing the grass that once held the soil in place, leading to erosion and loose dirt.
The Dust Bowl resulted in massive dust storms that wiped out crops, making it extremely difficult for farmers to continue their work. Many farmers lost everything, leading them to abandon their homes and search for jobs, often migrating to California.
In response to the Dust Bowl, the New Deal introduced programs aimed at helping those affected, emphasizing tree planting and soil conservation. These initiatives were designed to restore the land and improve farming methods, which gradually allowed farmers to recover and rebuild their lives.