2025 civics test · Question 103 · Recent American History
What was the Great Depression?
Official answer
- Longest economic recession in modern history
What this means
The Great Depression was the longest economic recession in modern history.
Beginning in 1929 and lasting through much of the 1930s, it threw millions of Americans out of work, closed banks and businesses, and left many families struggling to afford food and housing. It did not fully end until the country began producing for World War II.
The answer the officer wants is “the longest economic recession in modern history,” or simply “a very long, severe economic downturn.”
Why this is on the test
This 2025 question asks you to describe the Great Depression, the economic crisis that shaped a generation of Americans.
How this question is asked
On the 2025 civics test, the officer asks up to 20 of the 128 questions out loud and you pass by answering 12 correctly. You answer in your own words. There is no multiple choice and nothing to write down for the civics portion.
Related questions
More from Recent American History.
- 100 Name one war fought by the United States in the 1900s.
- 101 Why did the United States enter World War I?
- 102 When did all women get the right to vote?
- 104 When did the Great Depression start?
- 105 Who was president during the Great Depression and World War II?
- 106 Why did the United States enter World War II?