What Were the Two Worst Days in Stock Market History?

In the annals of stock market history lie two black days, October 29, 1929 (Black Tuesday) and October 19, 1987 (Black Monday). We can study these two days closely, learning about the differences and similarities that exist between them, and how to avoid future financial meltdowns.

The Stock Market Crash of 1929

The stock market crash of 1929 was the end of the prosperity of the "roaring twenties." Panic selling brought Wall Street and much of the nation's financial market to its knees.

After the Crash of 1929

People who had lost their fortunes in the stock market were unable to pay back loans and banks did not have money to give to people who wanted to withdraw their funds.

The Stock Market Crash of 1987

On October 19, 1987, panic selling brought about the biggest drop in stock market prices ever, including the crash of 1929. More than 604 million shares were traded on this date in history.

After the Crash of 1987

Unlike the crash of 1929, the country did not fall into a dark depression after the crash of 1987. By the end of the year, stock prices were back to normal.

Lessons Learned

.Measures have been taken since the crash of 1987 to ensure stock markets' computer systems and phone lines have been upgraded to handle emergency situations.

Resources

• Stock Market Crash of 1929
• Stock Market Crash of 1987