Great Depression DBQ on Causes and the New Deal Response

Investigate the Great Depression and New Deal through eight documents and an evidence-based essay. Guiding questions help students interpret sources before explaining causes and the federal response.
Grades
Grades 8–12
Pages
9
File type
PDF
Preparation
Print ready

Updated Sep 18, 2026

Subject
Social Studies, History: USA, Writing
Topic
Great Depression, Document based question
Resource types
DBQ's
Preparation
Print ready
Standards
W.8.9

Product description

From the author

This DBQ includes eight documents with questions to support source analysis, plus an essay outline and rubric. A teacher answer key is not included.

Prompt: What were the major causes of the Great Depression (1929-1941) and what steps did the Federal Government (under FDR) take to help alleviate the suffering of people throughout the country?

Common Core Standards:

CCSSRH.9-10.1

Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources, attending to such features as the date and origin of the information.

CCSSRH.9-10.4

Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including vocabulary describing political, social, or economic aspects of history/social studies.

Ccsswhst.9-10.1

Write arguments focused on discipline-specific content.

Ccsswhst.9-10.4

Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.

This product goes perfectly with this DBQ Outline and rubric, which is included! Help your students think critically!

Thumbnail clipart credit: By Dandy Doodles

DBQ

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Teaching tips & learning objectives

Learning objectives

  • Use document evidence to explain historical causes and evaluate a government response.

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What is the extension for advanced students?

The prompt asks them to explain criticisms of the New Deal in addition to addressing causes of the Depression and the federal response.

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