Definitely came to mind when reading that. I was a Ford brat, and the husband and I bought when stock was down around the $2 mark. We've made a considerable amount.

I just finished reading a book about the life of Laura Ingalls Wilder, who lived through something like 6 different depressions. Given the historic rates of inflation, innovation, and globalization, I don't really think the stock market is a bad bet IF you're willing and able to play the long game. The 20-30 years game. Get more conservative as you get older. Yes, still possible to get screwed, but it's one of many ways to keep options open.