Summary: Several events took place in New Jersey during the 1930s that consumed the American public—the Lindbergh baby kidnapping, the Hindenburg disaster, and The War of the Worlds radio broadcast. Students will use their historical thinking skills to examine a wide array of primary and secondary resources to draw conclusions about these events and analyze the overall impact of the media concurrently with the harsh economic conditions of the 1930s.
Overarching Questions:
- CIVICS: Have individuals and groups influenced public policy during this time period? If so, how and what has been the impact?
- NEW JERSEY: How have changes in New Jersey during this time period influenced U.S. history?
- ECONOMICS: How has technology (e.g., ships, canals, railroads, newspapers, telegraphs, radio, television, the internet and social media) spread ideas and influenced public opinion, the economy and/or the government? Did the changes strengthen or weaken democratic institutions?
NJ Student Learning Standards for Social Studies:
- 6.1.12.HistoryUP.9.a: Analyze the impact of the Great Depression on the American family and ethnic and racial minorities
Link to Lesson: New Jersey in the 1930s: The Depression and the Media