Not to minimize the real struggle many families are facing, but compared to our grandparents and their parents, some of whom suffered through the Depression, our woes aren't so big:
1. Life Expectancy - In 1930, the average woman lived to 61 the average man lived to 58. In 2004 the average life expectancy increased to 80 and 75 respectively. Yes many of us have no health insurance, but we live much longer than our forebearers. Most of us would agree that this is a good thing.
2. Unemployment Insurance - By 1932, approximately 25% of the workforce was unemployed. Today that rate is rising, but still significantly lower than during the Great Depression 5.5%, and since 1935 many unemployed have access to unemployment insurance.
3. Child Labor Laws - The Industrial Revolution in the United States meant 18 hour days for factory workers, many of them as young as 2 or 3. Child labor laws as well as laws ensuring a 5-day work week/8 hour work day weren't proposed until the mid-1930s as a way to stimulate employment opportunities for more Americans.
