The Impact of Natural Disasters on Florida's Economy in the Great Depression Era

How did natural disasters affect Florida's economy during the Great Depression?

What happened during Florida's Great Depression?

Answer:

Florida faced a series of natural disasters that significantly impacted its economy during the Great Depression era.

In 1929, the Mediterranean fruit fly invaded the state, causing substantial damage to the citrus industry. A quarantine was established, and troops set up roadblocks and checkpoints to prevent the spread of the fruit fly. As a result, Florida's citrus production was cut by about sixty percent.

Additionally, between 1926 and 1928, hurricanes swept through the state, causing further devastation. The hurricanes disrupted business activities and destroyed infrastructure, leading to economic hardships for the residents of Florida.

By the time the Great Depression hit other states in 1929, Florida was already reeling from the impacts of the natural disasters. The combination of the fruit fly invasion and hurricanes had weakened the state's economy, making it more vulnerable to the economic downturn that followed.