12. The Wall Street Crash (1929)
In October 1929, the Wall Street Crash struck with terrifying speed, wiping out fortunes and triggering panic overnight. This financial collapse marked the beginning of the Great Depression, with devastating ripple effects that would impact economies and lives across the globe for years. Few financial crises have matched its reach, though later events like the 2008 crash drew comparisons. The Federal Reserve History details how the sudden downturn reshaped economic policy and global markets.
