The Great
Plains has experienced a variation of regional economies that has caused many
residents to travel West to California. The Dust Bowl in the 1930's was
concentrated in the Great Plains region. "Much of the region experienced
one of the longest, most severe droughts in recorded history. Massive dust
storms-their fury exacerbated by the absence of prairie grasses that held once
stabilized the region's soil-wreaked havoc throughout the region" (Pearson).
Massive dust storms swept through the region causing major ecological and
agricultural damage. These intense storms often hindered visibility for a few
feet. Damaging farms and crops, the Dust Bowl quickly decreased the population
in the Great Plains. The severe conditions of the Dust Bowl in addition to the
Great Depression forced many residents to migrate to California in search of
better opportunities.
As described in The Geography of North
America and from my personal experience reading the play "The Grapes of
Wrath", this script outlines the hardship of families traveling across the
country to the West in hope of jobs and survival. Many of these lower class
families held behind their homes and suffered on their way to the West. In
Grapes of Wrath, John Steinbeck focuses on a family who arrives to California;
however, the dreams of a better life are shattered.
This phenomenal
play is currently in theatre in Pasadena, California. last month I attended
this show and I can honestly say I was blown away by the set and performance.
It depicts the variety of lifestyles across the nation throughout the Dust Bowl
and its economic, social and religious effect on citizens of America. Below I
have attached a link to direct you to the theatre where purchase of tickets
online is available.
This is a MUST SEE
show!!
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