Depression 2009: What Would it Look Like?

From reading the article "Depression 2009" by Drake Bennett, it made me question what a depression really is like. In history, we hear stories through books, and we hear other people talk, but we never imagine ourselves in the situation. By reading this article, I did. In my own opinion, I believe that our economy could go through some depressions in the future, however I feel as though there will never be one as drastic as there was in the 1930's. I feel this way, because our country has made strides, and learned from past experiences. We now have departments, and regulations in place that help protect our money and belongings. This was not in existence during the "Great Depression". I have thought about whether our country would ever go into a major depression. Especially last year, when we were in a mild depression. If we were to go into a depression, there would be many major sacrifices that everyday individuals would have to go through. If my parents lost their job as a result of the depression, We would possibly have to give up our house, like many people during the depression did. Where would we go? It would be a hassle to get food on the table. We might not get three meals a day. We could possibly get one. Many students had to drop out of school. Therefore, I would not have an education, and after the depression, it would be tough getting a real job. According to the author, the world would look much different in a 21st century depression. There would be less people driving, very little shopping, and less dining out. Parents would not send their kids to daycare, which would cause more job losses. If the depression hit us, marriages would be less common. I completely agree with the authors statements. If we got struck by a depression, many of our regular day rituals would change. It would be chaotic, and we would not be ready to deal with the repercussions.

The Simpsons "Prohibition"

I believe that the Simpsons "Prohibition" episode was a great tool to help us understand what really went on during he 1920's. Although reading books and writing notes gives us accurate information, we cannot visualize it as we could from seeing a movie. Prior to watching The Simpsons, I believed that it would give us a few small details that involved prohibition, but I never expected to be able to use it as a learning tool! It was very helpful and it was very easy to comprehend what was going on in that time period. The accuracies clearly outweighed the fictional comedy, and most of the fictional comedy in one way or another still somewhat related to the 1920's. I enjoyed the Simpsons episod, because it was not only fun to watch, but it was a learning experience as well. I believe that the "Speakeasies" were portrayed well through the shops, the "bootleggers" were portrayed well as well, through the mafia paying off the cops. Overall, the simpsons episode was a great learning experience

In one part of the episode, I remember the FBI entering one of the bars wondering why so many people were there at the time. I believe that instead of the people hiding their beers behind their back (and making it obvious that they were drinking), they should have made it seem as though they were having tonic or moxie instead. I also believe that they should have eliminated the scene where the owner of the "speakeasy" pulls the lever and hides the bar. Even though it was for comical purposes, it is not accurate what so ever. Besides this small scene, I really enjoyed the simpsons activity.

Giving up Freedoms

I personally believe that americans should have to give up many of their freedoms during a time of war. If not entering the war in the military, one should have to contribute in some way. Whether it is donating food, having gas stamps (for limited use of gas per week), or helping to create machinary used in war. With the work of our citizens, much more could be accomplished, and our country could grow greatly.

yellow journalism

SPAIN CAUGHT BURNING U.S.S MAINE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

On the night of February 15, 1898, a cruel and insane Spain man was spotted shooting ammunition at the U.S.S Maine. The Maine was doing very little and it was docked off the island of Cuba, when this man started shooting, which led to the beloved Maine catching on fire and exploding. If we are not to go to war over this, then what is a war worth going over. This cruel Spainiards have stepped over their boundries, and it has gone too far. Due to their disturbing actions, they have killed over 250 innocent U.S men. We must stand up for ouselves and put a stop to this once and for all!