Who served as Prime Minister of Canada from August 1930 to October 1935 and was blamed for the government's failure during the Depression?

• A. William Lyon Mackenzie King
• B. R.B. Bennett
• C. John Diefenbaker
• D. Louis St. Laurent

Answer: (B)

The individual who served as Prime Minister of Canada from August 1930 to October 1935 and faced significant criticism for the government's response to the Great Depression is R.B. Bennett. Bennett's tenure was marked by the economic turmoil of the time, and many Canadians felt that his government was slow to respond effectively to the severe economic hardship they were experiencing.

During Bennett's time in office, he implemented some measures to alleviate the suffering caused by the Depression, such as public works projects and the creation of the Relief Act. However, these efforts were often seen as inadequate, and his policies garnered little support as the economic situation worsened. The public's frustration with Bennett's handling of the crisis contributed heavily to his unstinting reputation during and after his administration.

In contrast, the other figures mentioned held different roles or served at different times. William Lyon Mackenzie King was a dominant political figure before and after Bennett’s term. John Diefenbaker and Louis St. Laurent served much later, in the 1950s and 1960s, and thus were not involved in the events of the Great Depression. This historical context underscores why R.B. Bennett is recognized for his leadership during this challenging period in Canada’s history.