When the Great Depression started, Nevada’s mines were decreasing, and its economy was in

When the Great Depression started, Nevada’s mines were decreasing, and its economy was in decline. Motivated to lift the state out of hard times and population flight, on March 19, 1931, the Nevada state legislature responded by voting to legalize gambling. This legislation allowed Las Vegas, Nevada, to become the gambling and entertainment capital of the world that we know today. 

Las Vegas is not only famous for its gambling and casinos, but also its nightclubs and sporting events, which combined overall revenues currently account for most of Nevada’s taxes. To spotlight this occasion, we would like to share with you these photographs of Las Vegas relating to America’s Byways.

Item: City of Las Vegas, Las Vegas Boulevard State Scenic Byway - Neon Night in Las Vegas.  Series: Digital Photographs Relating to America’s Byways, ca. 1995 - ca. 2013.  Record Group 406: Records of the Federal Highway Administration, 1956 - 2008.  (National Archives Identifier 7717640).   

Item: Las Vegas Strip - Stratosphere.  Series: Digital Photographs Relating to America’s Byways, ca. 1995 - ca. 2013.  Record Group 406: Records of the Federal Highway Administration, 1956 - 2008.  (National Archives Identifier 7720037).