1930s:The American economy is staggering from the impact of the Great Depression. The Wall Street crash of 1929 precipitated a worldwide economic crisis that resulted in devastating circumstances: record unemployment; high inflation; and financial institutions such as banks failing. Many families lose all of their savings and assets, and are forced to rely on charity. In response, the American government implements a number of social programs to relieve suffering, jump-start the economy, and get people back on their feet.

1990s: The economy is experiencing a record period of affluence and growth. Unemployment is very low, as is the inflation rate. The U.S. budget, at a record deficit in the 1980s, is at a surplus for the first time in many years.

1930s: Fascism is on the rise in Europe as financial and social instability allow leaders such as Benito Mussolini in Italy to...