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The Beginning
Severe droughts hit the Midwest and Southern Plains. "Black blizzards" begin as a result of high winds and loose top soil from over-plowed lands.
Surviving the Dust Bowl Video depicts life during the dust bowl era. -
Dust Storms
The number of dust storms increases. In 1932, there were 14. In 1933, therer were 38. -
Heading West
Many farmers give up and head west to California looking for work. -
Washington, D.C.
A dust storm travels from the plains of the west to Washington, D.C. as Congress is meeting to discuss soil conservation efforts and farming techniques. -
Drought Relief Service
The government forms the Drought Relief Service. As one of their services, they buy cattle from drought stricken farmers at $14-$20 a head. Many were simply destroyed because they were not fit to be eaten. -
Black Sunday
The worst dust storm occurs, causing severe damage. It is known as Black Sunday. -
Jackrabbit Drives
Dwindling food supplies force jackrabbits from their natural habitat down into the prairies. Farmers were forced to organize jackrabbit drives to keep them from eating the remaining crops. They would drive the jackrabbits into an enclosure and then kill them. -
Rain
The rain finally comes bringing an end to the drought after almost a decade.
