When did the Great Depression start?

Answers from the USCIS list

Give one of these answers. Words in light (parentheses) are optional.

• The Great Crash optional: (1929)
• Stock market crash of 1929

Our explanation

The stock market is where people buy and sell shares (small parts) of companies. In 1929, stock prices fell very fast. This “crash” started the Great Depression.

Remember it

1929: the 1920s ended with a crash.

Source

M-1778 (09/25) 128 Civics Questions and Answers, Q104: “The Great Crash (1929)” / “Stock market crash of 1929”. The study guide (p. 63) has no narrative on the crash; explanation only defines terms.

• 128 Civics Questions and Answers (2025 version), M-1778 (09/25) (PDF, USCIS)

Last checked on September 29, 2026.

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