A Level History - America - Practice Exam 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

One argument that states Hoover was responsible for the Great Depression is that Hoovervilles emerged due to his inaction. During the early years of the Great Depression, many Americans suffered from severe economic hardship, leading to widespread unemployment and homelessness. In response to the dire conditions, makeshift shantytowns known as "Hoovervilles" sprang up across the country, named ironically after President Herbert Hoover, who was perceived as being indifferent to the plight of the impoverished.

Critics argue that Hoover's reluctance to provide direct federal assistance to individuals and his commitment to minimal government intervention contributed to the severity of the crisis. His belief in voluntary cooperation between business and government did not translate into meaningful action to alleviate the suffering caused by widespread unemployment and poverty. As such, the rise of these tent cities became emblematic of the failures of his administration in addressing the urgent needs of the population during a time of economic turmoil.