The dust bowl
... None paid attention, since they didn’t notice the subtle effects of the dryness. Then, in the summer of 1931, the rain stopped. The lack of moistures led to the disappearance of topsoil, and the dust in the air made the breathing difficult. The Red Cross gave dust masks to people in the range of the dust storms, especially children. It took 1000 years to grow an inch of topsoil, and it was all gone in a matter of seconds. 100 million acres of farmland was wasted. Hard times took their toll as the depression went on. Farmers lost everything, and the relief aid was minimal at best. On April 14th, 1935, black clouds covered the sky, and there was an enormous dirt avalanche. This day became known as “Black Sunday”. Residents throughout Middle America were terrified. Dust pneumonia plagued those who had the willpower to stay where they lived, amidst the Dust Bowl. Banks and businesses failed, schools shut down, and churches closed their doors. People had to fight to stay alive. In 1937, ...