The History of Hoovervilles: Shantytowns of the Great Depression
Hooverville was a term used to describe the shantytowns that sprang up during the Great Depression, particularly in the United States. These towns were named after President Herbert Hoover, who was in office at the time and was widely blamed for the economic crisis.
The name "Hooverville" was coined by journalists and cartoonists to describe the makeshift homes and communities that were springing up all over the country as people lost their jobs and their homes. These towns were typically composed of shacks and tents made from scrap materials, and were often located on the outskirts of cities or in rural areas.
Hoovervilles were characterized by poverty, unemployment, and a lack of basic amenities such as running water, electricity, and sanitation. Despite the difficult conditions, however, the residents of Hooverville's managed to create a sense of community and solidarity, with many people sharing what little they had and working together to survive.
The term "Hooverville" is still used today to refer to any community that is struggling economically, and it serves as a reminder of the devastating effects of the Great Depression on the lives of millions of Americans.