A depression is a severe economic downturn that affects not only economic activity but also society at large. Typically, depressions last longer and are particularly pronounced in terms of unemployment, declining production, and weak demand. The most famous depression of the 20th century occurred in 1929 and was called the Great Depression.


During a depression, business failures and unemployment soared, consumer spending fell sharply, the banking system suffered a severe shock, and credit markets stagnated. Due to credit tightening and bank failures, the liquidity of funds for households and businesses decreased significantly, which exacerbated the vicious cycle of the economy. During the Great Depression, the unemployment rate in the United States was as high as 25%.


A depression is different from a recession. A recession is a temporary decline in economic activity that usually lasts for several quarters, while a depression lasts for several years. In response to a depression, governments and central banks often adopt fiscal and monetary policies, such as lowering interest rates, increasing government spending, and implementing public works projects, to stimulate economic recovery. President Roosevelt's "New Deal" during the Great Depression of the 1930s is a typical example.


Technological and financial innovations can also play an important role during economic depressions. The rapid development of modern financial technology has provided more tools for dealing with economic crises. For example, blockchain technology can improve the transparency and efficiency of the financial system and reduce the risk of financial fraud. After the 2008 financial crisis, Bitcoin came into being as a decentralized digital currency that aims to provide a payment system that does not rely on traditional financial institutions.


Blockchain technology ensures the transparency and security of transactions through distributed ledgers and consensus mechanisms, reducing dependence on intermediaries. This not only reduces transaction costs, but also improves the system's risk resistance. During economic depressions, blockchain can provide a more stable infrastructure for financial markets and help restore market confidence.


In addition, the application of blockchain in supply chain management and financial contracts can also show advantages in economic depressions. Smart contracts can automatically execute preset conditions, reduce human intervention and errors, and improve efficiency and reliability. These characteristics make blockchain a potential solution during economic depressions, helping companies and governments better cope with challenges.


The economic depression has a huge impact on the lives of ordinary people. From unemployment to reduced income, many people are facing financial difficulties. Social unrest and psychological pressure are also increasing. In such an environment, the application of blockchain technology not only has potential in the financial field, but may also play a positive role in social security, public services and other aspects.