Which group faced the most significant economic challenges during the 1920s?

The most significant economic challenges during the 1920s were faced by farmers and many rural areas due to a combination of factors that uniquely affected the agricultural sector. Following World War I, the demand for agricultural products decreased sharply as European countries rebuilt their economies and returned to pre-war production levels. This resulted in a significant drop in prices for crops, while many farmers had incurred debts during the war to expand their operations. The increase in production capabilities meant that oversupply led to lower prices, exacerbating financial difficulties.

Additionally, the economic prosperity that characterized the 1920s for many urban industrial workers and professionals did not extend to the rural populations. The mechanization of agriculture, while increasing efficiency, also meant that fewer workers were needed, leaving many farmers unemployed or underemployed. Furthermore, the rural economy was affected by weather-related challenges, such as the Dust Bowl towards the end of the decade, which further strained their already precarious financial situations.

In contrast, industrial workers and urban professionals often experienced significant advancements in wages and job opportunities during this period, largely benefiting from the booming consumer economy. Manufacturers in the Northeast also adapted to the changing economic landscape, whereas rural farmers continued to struggle with systemic issues that undermined their livelihoods.