Across America, the Great Depression had devastating economic effects that touched nearly every American. Despite this, some American Industries managed to survive and even thrive during this time of major economic depression.
A prime example of this is the food industry, because people still needed to eat, even in tough economic times. Although many people starved, those who did not contributed greatly to the success of companies like Kelloggs, which had a massive surge in business during this time due to low overhead prices for its basic grain products, a demand not hurt nearly as badly as many other companies and its ability to out market and outcompete rival company Post during this time.
Another market that grew was that of household essentials, or perceived essentials. Though some business was lost due to people not having jobs, those who could would still had need for soap, solvents, gasoline, and other items. Oddly, one of these commodities that thrived from "necessity" was cigarettes, with Camel gaining a huge boost during the 1930s.
Finally, communications grew during this time period. Print and radio in particular experienced major bumps during this time.
Despite a generally negative economic situation, the Depression was still a time of economic growth for some. This serves as a reminded that although historical trends may emerge, there will always be exceptions.
http://www.forbes.com/2009/04/30/1930s-depression-stocks-business-classic.html
http://www.fightboredom.net/2009/02/industries-that-thrived-during-great.html
While we typically view the Great Depression as a time of sorrow and despair for Americans, it was interesting for you to look into those who found success during the rough times and why. Even though food was always in demand, we mentioned in class how farmers would destroy their crop supply in order to keep the demand of their food high. I wonder how thriving food companies managed this conflict of supply and demand during the Great Depression. It would also be interesting to look into who still had some faith in the stock market by buying stocks super low only to sell them for a higher price once America recovered from the depression (like Joe Kennedy). Those types of people definitely ended up prospering from the Great Depression. For more information on people that made money during the Depression, read the following article : http://www.cnn.com/2009/LIVING/08/20/mf.fortune.depression/
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