But Hoover’s moderate policies, based upon a strongly held belief in the spirit of American individualism, were not enough to stem the ever-growing problems, and the economy slipped further and further into the Great Depression. Americans hoped he would continue to lead the country through still more economic growth, and neither he nor the country was ready for the unraveling that followed. Herbert Hoover became president at a time of ongoing prosperity in the country. (credit “courthouse”: modification of work by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)
