During the Great Depression, which two industries experienced significant growth?

The Great Depression, a severe worldwide economic downturn in the 1930s, paradoxically saw growth in specific sectors despite widespread hardship. While many industries struggled, aviation and automobile manufacturing experienced notable expansion. This was largely due to technological advancements and changing consumer desires. The 1930s witnessed significant improvements in aircraft design, making air travel more accessible and appealing. Think of the iconic Douglas DC-3, which revolutionized commercial flight. Similarly, the automobile industry benefited from mass production techniques pioneered by Henry Ford. Cars became more affordable, and the desire for personal transportation fueled demand, even during tough times. While agriculture suffered immensely due to falling prices and the Dust Bowl, and shipbuilding declined due to reduced trade, aviation and automobiles represented forward-looking industries that offered a glimpse of progress amidst the economic gloom. These industries were not immune to the depression's effects, but their relative growth stood out compared to other sectors.