The Dust Bowl: Causes, Impact, and Recovery

The video explores the history of the Southern Great Plains, focusing on the environmental and economic factors that led to the Dust Bowl in the 1930s. It discusses the impact of over-farming and drought, the resulting migration to California, and the subsequent recovery efforts, including soil conservation and agricultural reforms.

What was the primary reason for the initial settlement of the Southern Great Plains?

• Favorable climate for rice cultivation

• Rich mineral resources

• Proximity to major cities

• Abundant grazing land

What was a significant factor that contributed to the overproduction of wheat in the 1920s?

• Increased demand for corn

• Government subsidies for wheat

• Decline in cattle farming

• Introduction of faster farming equipment

How did the dust storms of the 1930s affect daily life in the Southern Plains?

• They made it difficult to breathe without protection

• They caused frequent power outages

• They increased agricultural productivity

• They improved air quality

What was a common reaction of people during the severe dust storms?

• They ignored the storms

• They celebrated the storms

• They moved to the coast

• They panicked and sought shelter

What was the main reason for the migration of people from the Dust Bowl to California?

• Escape from economic hardship and environmental disaster

• Search for gold

• Interest in Hollywood

• Desire for a warmer climate

What challenges did migrants face upon reaching California?

• Miserable living conditions and a glutted labor market

• Welcoming communities

• Abundant job opportunities

• Free housing and food

What was one of the key outcomes of the Dust Bowl in terms of agricultural policy?

• Ban on farming in the Great Plains

• Subsidies for cattle farming

• Increased wheat production

• Introduction of soil conservation programs

What lesson did farmers learn from the Dust Bowl experience?

• To avoid crop rotation

• To rely solely on rain-fed agriculture

• To keep land covered to prevent erosion

• To increase livestock numbers

What was the role of the Last Man's Club during the Dust Bowl?

• To organize migration to California

• To pledge to stay and restore the land

• To sell land to developers

• To promote tourism in the area

How did the Dust Bowl ultimately impact the perception of the Southern Plains?

• It became a major industrial hub

• It was seen as a lost cause

• It was abandoned by all residents

• It was considered the Promised Land after recovery