Historian Dana Frank emphasizes the significance of collective action during the Great Depression, challenging mainstream narratives that herald Franklin Delano Roosevelt as the sole hero.
Frank's book, What Can We Learn From the Great Depression, highlights stories of ordinary people and their efforts for empowerment and solidarity amid economic hardship.
She illustrates examples such as mutual-benefit societies, grocery co-ops, and rent strikes that provided community support and resistance during the era.
Frank critiques the historical focus on individualism, noting that many marginalized groups were often excluded from relief during the New Deal.
Her insights draw relevant parallels to contemporary movements and advocate for a broader understanding of historical narratives.
Read more about Dana Frank's insights in her book at The Guardian.