Which American author wrote about the challenges faced by workers during the Great Depression?

John Steinbeck is known for his poignant depiction of the struggles faced by workers during the Great Depression, particularly in his seminal works such as "The Grapes of Wrath" and "Of Mice and Men." In "The Grapes of Wrath," Steinbeck follows the Joad family as they leave Oklahoma in search of a better life in California after losing their farm to drought and economic hardship. His portrayal of their journey illustrates the broader social and economic issues of the time, including poverty, displacement, and the search for dignity amidst desperation. Steinbeck’s ability to convey the deep emotional and physical hardships experienced by the disenfranchised working class solidifies his status as a critical voice during this era in American literature.

In contrast, while authors like Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and William Faulkner have made significant contributions to literature, their primary focus was not on the socioeconomic challenges of workers during the Great Depression, which sets Steinbeck apart as the most relevant figure in this context.