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Seattle in the Great Depression: A History of Business, Labor, and Politics Drawn from Local Chronicles
- GenresHistory
343 pages, Paperback
Published May 30, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
October 29, 2025
Seattle, like the rest of our nation, plummeted into the economic doldrums when the stock market collapsed in October 1929. Lots of people lost their jobs, wages, housing, and ability to obtain food. This was a time during which many in our parental generation were trying to begin their adult lives. For some the road was treacherous and filled with discouragement, but for others it was a time of opportunity and a chance for greatness. Bruce Ramsey, long-time journalist, dug into the way Seattle's newspapers covered the Great Depression, thus his book focuses on Seattle's political and labor leaders because this is what the papers published. Neither the papers, according to Ramsey, or his book says much about everyday citizens.
That said, I was surprised at how much influence the Communist Party and its offshoots had on the relief and welfare programs in the city. I had little idea of the role that bonds played in Ponzi-like schemes to defer payments, avoid bankruptcy, and hide wealth. And then there were the union organizers and the bullying of those who got in the way. Ramsey's book leaves the impression that most of Seattle's realtors, bankers, and politicians were corrupt. At the same time, he narrated the backstory of some of the city's better known businesses, personalities, and waterfront world. I found names that I heard as a kid. In the long run it was a fascinating read.
That said, I was surprised at how much influence the Communist Party and its offshoots had on the relief and welfare programs in the city. I had little idea of the role that bonds played in Ponzi-like schemes to defer payments, avoid bankruptcy, and hide wealth. And then there were the union organizers and the bullying of those who got in the way. Ramsey's book leaves the impression that most of Seattle's realtors, bankers, and politicians were corrupt. At the same time, he narrated the backstory of some of the city's better known businesses, personalities, and waterfront world. I found names that I heard as a kid. In the long run it was a fascinating read.
December 15, 2025
Wonderful, informative book concerning the causes, effects, and machinations in Seattle during the Great Depression.
Banking, speculation, labor, radical politics, National politics, business & construction, failed tariffs & other monetary policies, unemployment - this book reads live a novel, a lot of captivating tales concerning many characters in Seattle & Washington State.
A must-read for those interested in Seattle & Washington history.
Banking, speculation, labor, radical politics, National politics, business & construction, failed tariffs & other monetary policies, unemployment - this book reads live a novel, a lot of captivating tales concerning many characters in Seattle & Washington State.
A must-read for those interested in Seattle & Washington history.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews