A single bad day on Wall Street can wipe out billions and shake the entire economy.

Stock market crashes aren’t just numbers on a screen—they impact jobs, retirement savings, and even how much you pay for everyday goods. While markets tend to recover over time, some single-day collapses have sent shockwaves through America, leaving lasting financial scars. One bad trading session can trigger panic, force businesses to shut down, and send investors scrambling for safety.
These crashes don’t just happen out of nowhere. Some are caused by reckless speculation, others by economic downturns, and sometimes, a single major event can send stocks into freefall. Whether it’s a financial meltdown or a sudden burst of an overinflated bubble, these market collapses remind everyone that no investment is ever guaranteed. Here are 11 of the worst one-day stock market crashes in American history—each one proving just how fragile the financial system can be.