There’s something truly fascinating and nostalgic about the 1930s, it was a decade full of charm, resilience, and change for the entire world. While it had its challenges, like any decade throughout history, it was also a time of groundbreaking ideas, bold style, and cultural breakthroughs that shaped the world as we know it today and still influence us to this day.
From the golden age of cinema and the rise of radio, to trailblazing figures and everyday stories of strength and community, the 1930s was a decade that captured the world’s imagination and has been deeply etched into our memories. If you’re curious about what happened in the 1930s or you’re celebrating a special year in that decade, there’s so much to discover from this unforgettable era.
If you’ve ever wondered what happened in the 1930s, or you’re looking for a quick roundup of important historical events in the 1930s, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re researching for fun, reminiscing, or picking the perfect throwback gift in the form of our greeting cards that cover all the years from 1930 to 2022, we’ve gathered the most defining moments in history from 1930 to 1939. We’ll focus especially on what happened in the 1930s in the UK, USA, Europe, and other key parts of the western world, with a nod to major global developments and events that shaped history.
Let’s take a closer look at the events that made the 1930s unforgettable.
What Happened in the 1930s: Major Historical Events
The Great Depression Deepens (1930–1933)
By 1930, the stock market crash of late 1929 had triggered a global economic crisis. The Great Depression hit hard across the UK, USA, and much of Europe. Unemployment soared, banks collapsed, and millions found themselves in poverty. In Britain, industrial areas in the North and Wales faced devastating job losses. Across the Atlantic, Franklin D. Roosevelt introduced the New Deal to combat the crisis with public works and economic reforms.
Growth of Grocery Chains and Retail Innovation in the UK (1930-1939)
Throughout the 1930s, grocery shopping in Britain began to shift. Though the first true self-service supermarkets wouldn’t appear until the late 1940s, this decade laid important foundations that paved the road for modern day supermarkets as we know them today. Chains like Sainsbury’s and the newly established Tesco (founded in 1931) expanded rapidly, opening neat, well-stocked stores in towns across the UK. These shops introduced more consistent pricing, better hygiene standards, and a more organised shopping experience, a sign of things to come in British retail.
Rise of Adolf Hitler and Nazi Germany (1933)
In 1933, Adolf Hitler was appointed Chancellor of Germany. Within months, he consolidated power, banned opposition parties, and laid the foundation for a fascist regime. His rise sent shockwaves through Europe and began a chain of events that would lead to World War II. The 1930s in Europe became increasingly tense as totalitarian ideologies took hold in Germany, Italy, and Spain.
The Dust Bowl and Agricultural Collapse (1930s, USA)
Throughout the 1930s, the American Midwest was ravaged by severe dust storms caused by drought and poor farming practices. Known as the Dust Bowl, it displaced hundreds of thousands of families and deepened the economic struggles of the Great Depression. Images of dust-covered farms and mass migration became iconic symbols of the decade’s hardship.
The Commonwealth of Australia Act (1931)
Although the Statute of Westminster is often highlighted, Australia’s political maturation took clearer form with the passing of the Commonwealth of Australia Act. It wasn’t adopted until 1942, but it signified the growing autonomy of Australia from British rule, a subtle but key shift in the global balance of power.
The Statute of Westminster (1931)
A landmark moment for the British Empire, the Statute of Westminster granted legislative independence to former colonies like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It marked a shift in Britain’s global role and the gradual evolution from empire to commonwealth, giving these nations greater control over their domestic and foreign affairs.
The Formation of the BBC Empire Service (1932)
The BBC launched its Empire Service, the precursor to the World Service, broadcasting radio programmes to British colonies around the world. This was a key milestone in the UK’s media history and an early example of global broadcasting. It strengthened Britain’s cultural influence and became a lifeline for news during times of crisis.
The Launch of Monopoly (1935)
Monopoly is the world’s most famous board game. Who would’ve thought that a simple board game could become such a cultural icon? Monopoly was originally released in 1935 and quickly became a family favourite, offering a playful form of escapism during tough economic times. It’s still a beloved household name today.
Amelia Earhart’s Flight Feats (1932–1937)
In 1932, Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Her daring aviation achievements captured the imagination of the world and challenged gender norms. Tragically, she disappeared in 1937 during her attempt to circumnavigate the globe, a mystery that endures to this day.
The Invention of Radar (Mid-1930s)
British scientists, led by Sir Robert Watson-Watt, developed radar technology during the mid-1930s. Even though it wasn’t fully appreciated at the time, radar would later prove critical during World War II, particularly in the Battle of Britain and a groundbreaking invention in general. Its invention was one of the decade’s most important technological breakthroughs.
Jesse Owens at the Berlin Olympics (1936)
American athlete Jesse Owens stunned the world by winning four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, held under the Nazi regime. His victories directly contradicted Hitler’s ideals of Aryan supremacy and became a defining moment in sports history and civil rights symbolism.
The Spanish Civil War Begins (1936)
In 1936, Spain descended into civil war between the Republicans and the Nationalists, led by General Francisco Franco. The conflict became a proxy war, drawing in foreign powers and volunteers, including British members of the International Brigades. It was a brutal preview of the ideological battles that would define the 20th century.
Edward VIII Abdicates the Throne (1936)
In one of the most dramatic moments in British royal history, King Edward VIII abdicated the throne to marry American divorcée Wallis Simpson. His decision led to the ascension of his brother, George VI, and sent shockwaves through the British monarchy. The abdication crisis was a media sensation and challenged royal traditions.
The First Woman to Win a Nobel Prize in Literature (1938)
Pearl S. Buck, an American writer, was awarded the Nobel Prize for her vivid portrayals of Chinese peasant life. It was a landmark moment for female authors and a reminder that empathy and storytelling had global power even in troubled times.
The Rise of Radio and Cinema (Early to Mid-1930s)
Despite the challenges of the 1930s, this decade saw cultural blossoming through entertainment. Radio became a household staple across the UK and US, offering news, music, and dramas. Meanwhile, Hollywood’s Golden Age was in full swing, with stars like Clark Gable, Greta Garbo, and Shirley Temple lighting up screens and offering a much-needed escape from daily hardships.
World War II Looms (1939)
The decade came to a close with the outbreak of the Second World War. In September 1939, Germany invaded Poland, prompting Britain and France to declare war. The world was once again plunged into global conflict, but the warning signs had been building throughout the 1930s.
Commemorate and celebrate the 1930s with a greetings card
The 1930s wasn’t just about headlines, it was a time of heart, resilience and incredible cultural flair. From the glitz of early Hollywood and the rise of radio in British homes, to unforgettable sporting triumphs and world-changing inventions, this was a decade where progress and personality shone through, even in the toughest of times.
Whether it’s the laughter echoing from cinema aisles, the buzz of a newly purchased wireless set, or the spirit of communities pulling together, the 1930s gave us stories worth celebrating.
If you want to celebrate or commemorate a year from the 30s, then our greetings cards that cover every year from 1930 all the way to 1939 with a summary of the most important events of that year is the perfect gift.
Thoughtfully designed and full of fascinating facts, they’re the perfect gift for milestone birthdays, anniversaries or just a lovely surprise for someone who appreciates a bit of retro charm.
Browse our full collection of year-themed cards here and find the perfect year to spark a smile.