Hard Times: An Oral History of the Great Depression

By: Studs Terkel

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Synopsis: From the Pulitzer Prize–winning author of The Good War: A masterpiece of modern journalism and &“a huge anthem in praise of the American spirit&” (Saturday Review). In this &“invaluable record&” of one of the most dramatic periods in modern American history, Studs Terkel recaptures the Great Depression of the 1930s in all its complexity. Featuring a mosaic of memories from politicians, businessmen, artists, striking workers, and Okies, from those who were just kids to those who remember losing a fortune, Hard Times is not only a gold mine of information but a fascinating interplay of memory and fact, revealing how the 1929 stock market crash and its repercussions radically changed the lives of a generation. The voices that speak from the pages of this unique book are as timeless as the lessons they impart (The New York Times). &“Hard Times doesn&’t &‘render&’ the time of the depression—it is that time, its lingo, mood, its tragic and hilarious stories.&” —Arthur Miller &“Wonderful! The American memory, the American way, the American voice. It will resurrect your faith in all of us to read this book.&” —Newsweek &“Open Studs Terkel&’s book to almost any page and rich memories spill out . . . Read a page, any page. Then try to stop.&” —The National Observer