The Great Depression, which lasted from 1929 to 1939, was the most severe economic crisis in modern history. It had a profound impact on the lives of millions of Americans, and its social and economic consequences were still being felt during the 1940s, when Death of a Salesman was written.
Labor unionisation and workers rights:
The growing power of labor unions and the increasing awareness of workers' rights were other important political issues of the time. The National Labor Relations Act of 1935 gave workers the right to organize unions and bargain collectively with their employers. This led to a surge in union membership and a number of high-profile strikes and labor conflicts.
Social class and inequality:
The stark inequalities of wealth and social status in American society were also major political issues of the time. The Depression had disproportionately affected the working class and poor, while the wealthy and upper classes were able to weather the economic crisis more easily. This led to increased tensions between different social classes and a growing awareness of the need for social reform.