The Great Depression of 1929 was a severe economic downturn that lasted from 1929 to the late 1930s. It was the longest, deepest, and most widespread depression of the 20th century. The depression was triggered by the stock market crash of October 24, 1929, also known as Black Thursday. The crash led to a panic that caused many investors to sell their stocks, which caused the stock market to plummet. The depression was characterized by high unemployment rates, low economic growth, and a decline in international trade. The depression had a profound impact on the global economy, leading to significant changes in economic policy and the role of government in the economy.