Ep 38. Recovery & Depression in the West - 1919 - 36

Recovery & Depression in the West - 1919 - 36 is a fascinating episode of Foundations of Western Civilization II: A History of the Modern Western World season 1, in which viewers gain insight into the tumultuous period of time between World War I and World War II. Focusing on the years between 1919 and 1936, the episode delves into the economic, political, and social upheaval that marked this time period.

The episode begins with an examination of the aftermath of World War I, with a particular focus on the Treaty of Versailles and its impact on Germany. Viewers learn how the treaty was designed to punish Germany for its role in the war, but how it ultimately set the stage for the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi party in the years to come.

Moving on to the 1920s, the episode explores the "Roaring Twenties" and the economic boom that characterized this period. Viewers learn how new technologies, such as the automobile and the radio, sparked widespread social change and transformed the way people lived their lives. However, the prosperity of the 1920s was not evenly distributed, and the episode also examines the plight of farmers and other groups who struggled to make ends meet.

The second half of the episode focuses on the Great Depression, which hit the Western world in 1929 and had far-reaching consequences. Viewers learn how the economic downturn contributed to social unrest and political upheaval, leading to the rise of extremist parties in countries such as Germany and Italy. The episode also explores the various efforts to address the depression, including the New Deal in the United States and the policies of the British economist John Maynard Keynes.

Throughout the episode, viewers are introduced to a wide range of historical figures and events that played a role in shaping the modern Western world. These include the likes of U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, German Chancellor Adolf Hitler, and British economist John Maynard Keynes. Viewers also get a sense of how broader social and cultural trends, such as the rise of consumerism and changing attitudes towards gender roles, intersected with political and economic developments to shape the world we live in today.

Overall, Recovery & Depression in the West - 1919 - 36 is a compelling episode of Foundations of Western Civilization II: A History of the Modern Western World season 1. Through its exploration of the aftermath of World War I, the economic boom of the 1920s, and the Great Depression, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the factors that contributed to the modern Western world as we know it today. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking to gain a better understanding of the world around you, this episode is definitely worth checking out.