The answer is that there was NO single safe place for your savings, not even 'cash' dollars throughout the three years that marked the stock market crash of 1929-1932. The individual had to use their minds and keep their eyes on the markets to steer through that most perilous of financial times.
Many believe they understand the coming debt deflation and know where THE safe place will be to put their savings. History suggests they may be consumed for their faith in theory rather attention to market reality.
And this was a relatively straightforward case of unwinding and deflation. What twists and turns does this brave new world of derivatives and fiat reserve currencies have in store for us as it unwinds? And what new policy errors unforeseen and consequences unexpected await because of the Fed's continual experimenting in the markets?
We'll be talking more about this in the days ahead.
"A new, invisible and at times virtual, tyranny is established, one which unilaterally and irremediably imposes its own laws and rules. Moreover, indebtedness and credit distance countries from their real economy and citizens from their real buying power. Added to this, as if it were needed, is widespread corruption and selfish fiscal evasion which have taken on worldwide dimensions. The will to power and of possession has become limitless." Francis I, 16 May 2013