Even though men were typically the leader and foundation of the family before the Great Depression and afterward, Ma Joad was the substitute in this novel. She is the only one that can handle everyone and still have supper on time. Her ability to understand and her unbelievable strength make Ma the correct choice, by no choice, to head this family on the road of life. Solid foundations can take many beatings and keep standing …showed first 75 words of 372 total…

…showed last 75 words of 372 total…frying pan and when she stopped Tom from reaching the metal object when he was stopped escaping from Hooverville. When they are at the government camp, she bares down and strictly tells the men to find work and make a decision if they were going to leave. Her actions also put the family on the move after the flood. Because of her strength and determination the family has survived major obstacles with only minor scratches.