1930s: America is in the grip of a severe economic depression.

Today: Economic policies, like unemployment compensation, are in place to help prevent the country from falling into a severe depression that would devastate the lives of American citizens as in the 1930s.

1936: Black American Jesse Owens enters the Olympics, which are held in Nazi Germany. Hitler's intention for these games is to prove to the world the dominance of the Aryan race. Jesse, however, wins an impressive and record-breaking four track and field gold medals in one day.

Today: Black athletes continue to win major awards in athletic competitions.

1939: Germany invades Poland and World War II begins. Many African Americans will enlist or be drafted into the services.

Today: While all able-bodied American men are required to register with the military, the American armed forces are entirely voluntary and integrated.

1930s: Blues artists...