The document summarizes the impact of the Great Depression on the railroad industry in the 1930s. Unemployment rose significantly which meant fewer people could afford to travel by train. The growth of automobile use also reduced railroad ridership. As a result, railroad mileage and employment declined sharply during this period. The industry struggled financially but began developing new technologies like diesel locomotives and luxury trains to attract passengers again. Railroads also played an important role transporting troops during World War II and workers began organizing unions, improving pay and working conditions over time.