Students are learning about the Great Depression of 1929-1939. They have learned the economic reasons for this terrible downturn, and they will be learning about the social effects, too.
During this time, thousands of teenagers rode the rails. Many came from homes that could no longer feed them. The boys (and a few girls) set out to find a way to feed themselves, take burdens off their families, and make a better life. Most came back, a few did not.
They joined thousands of others, including, in some cases, entire families whose lives were displaced by the Dust Bowl and economic deprivation...
Today, many teenagers still ride the rails, or they may even hitchhike. Fortunately, many make it back home safe, but teenagers are still prey to accidents, abuse, and neglect.
