What does it say about the handicapped people during the 1930s?

George is mentally challenged so his "handicap" is not visible. Still, when he speaks, people think he is stupid or crazy. Generally people are ignorant about challenged people, Even Crooks, who injured his back, isn't given sympathy or understanding. Candy is compensated $200 for loosing his hand and then cat aside. This was certainly a brutal world for challenged people.