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The Auto Industry In The 1930's

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Automobiles developed greatly throughout the early 20th century, from being clunky awkward things to drive to smooth easy to drive useful machines. The roaring 20’s became time of growth and development for the auto industry. (Miller-Wilson) Cars continued to become safer, cheaper, more reliable, and more practical. Cars saw huge technological advancements throughout the 20’s including better safety, reliability, and therefore became more practical. Development continued until the depression of 1929 hit. (1920’s Automobiles) The crash of the stock market in 1929 led to the Great Depression, which brought social and cultural changes that would have large impacts on the auto industry. (Duchardt) The auto industry, despite the economic difficulties of the 1930’s, continued to thrive on innovation and necessity.

Automobiles began becoming somewhat popular in the early 1900’s. The Ford Model T was the first model aggressively market toward the average family. (Miller-Wilson) The Model T was the first car that was reliable and easy to work on. Features such as the detachable cylinder head made it easy to work on. (History.com Staff) The Model T was also very easy to drive due to its 2 speed planetary transmission. (History.com Staff) Unfortunately, the Model T sold for $825 in 1908,which is …show more content…

The effects of the Depression were very evident soon after the crash when most of the auto companies that began in the roaring 20’s died. (Miller-Wilson) The remaining companies Ford, GM, and Chrysler, otherwise know as the “Big Three,” became dominant soon after the stock market crash, and even these companies had to cut hours, wages, and lay off workers. (Duchardt) Of the these three companies GM was dominant. GM offered more models than its rivals and kept up-to-date with current technology. These companies would have to continue innovating and attracting consumers to stay

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