1. The Great Depression 1929-1939 Economic collapse causes massive problems for Canadians, forcing the governments to step in and intervene more closely in people’s lives

2. Economic Collapse Black Thursday: October 24, 1929 New York Stock Market crashes US economy slips into the Great Depression Canada’s industries depended on trade with the US. Canada slips into the Depression Businesses close 25% unemployment by 1933.

3. Assistance Many need aid – no welfare or insurance They turn to… Religious groups Charities …but there’s too much demand At first, government does not respond

4. Government Finally Responds 1931 – Unemployment Relief Act Invested in PUBLIC WORKS Jobs building roads, bridges, public buildings Created DIRECT RELIEF Financial aid to families in need. COLONIZATION of remote areas Gaspesie, Abitibi- Temiscamingue.

5. Government Interventionism  (def) A policy advocating increased government intervention in economic and social affairs. The emergency measures didn’t have a great effect. Federal and provincial governments realized they needed to intervene more.

6. People’s reaction People were unhappy. Wanted change. Wanted more protection. Lost confidence in politicians – new parties emerged: Socialist Communist Fascist Populist.