Hooverville
A shanty town built during the Great Depression by the homeless in the US
Real World Example
Hoovervilles were makeshift shanty towns built by homeless people during the Great Depression, named mockingly after President Herbert Hoover, who was blamed for the economic crisis. These settlements highlighted the severe poverty and unemployment that many Americans faced during the 1928-1933 period. They served as a stark symbol of the government's inability to provide for its citizens during tough times, raising awareness about the need for social safety nets. Today, the legacy of Hoovervilles reminds us of the importance of community support and government assistance during economic hardships. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many people relied on food banks and housing assistance programs, echoing the need for collective support in challenging times.