Wall Street Crash 1929

December 15, 2025

7 Sections

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Overview

The Wall Street Crash of 1929 was a catastrophic collapse of stock prices on the New York Stock Exchange that began in late October 1929 and marked the beginning of the decade-long Great Depression in the United States. It is often characterized as the most devastating stock market crash in the history of the industrialized world. The crash was not a single event but a precipitous and prolonged decline, punctuated by infamous days of panic selling, such as 'Black Thursday' (October 24), 'Black Monday' (October 28), and 'Black Tuesday' (October 29), 1929. It resulted in the obliteration of billions of dollars in paper wealth, widespread bankruptcies, a collapse in consumer confidence, and triggered a severe contraction in economic activity.

Overview / Introduction

Provides a concise definition of the Wall Street Crash of 1929, establishes its timeframe and primary characteristics, and distinguishes it from the broader economic phenomena like the Great Depression.

History / Origins

Traces the sequence of events from the initial market peak and subsequent 'Black Thursday' to the subsequent panic selling and market collapse, highlighting the immediate aftermath.

Core Concepts / Fundamentals

Examines the fundamental economic conditions that set the stage for the crash, including speculation, margin buying, lack of regulation, and underlying industrial weaknesses.

Structure / Anatomy / Components

Analyzes the specific sequence of market days (e.g., Black Thursday, Black Monday, Black Tuesday) that defined the crash and the mechanisms of the panic selling.

Applications / Use Cases

Explores the immediate and long-term consequences of the crash, including its role in triggering the Great Depression, its social impact, and its influence on policy and law.

Criticism / Controversies / Limitations

Discusses the historical and economic debates surrounding the causes and significance of the crash, including differing interpretations and its representation in culture.

Future Directions / Research

Examines the enduring legacy of the crash in shaping modern financial regulation, economic theory, and its continued relevance as a cautionary historical event.