Confronted with starvation, lack of education, and homelessness, children of the Great Depression, like sixteen-year-old Clarence Lee, whose father asked him to leave home because he could no longer afford to support him, grew up quickly. Many weren't able to attend school. Instead, millions of American children worked alongside their parents, trying to make ends meet. In spite of these challenges, they grew up with courage, a sense of responsibility, and the knowledge that hope can make a difference.