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key term - Roosevelt's New Deal

Definition

Roosevelt's New Deal was a series of federal programs and policies enacted in the United States during the 1930s aimed at providing relief, recovery, and reform in response to the Great Depression. The New Deal sought to alleviate the economic hardships faced by millions of Americans through job creation, financial assistance, and regulatory reforms while reshaping the role of the federal government in the economy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The New Deal was introduced by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during his first hundred days in office in 1933.
  2. The New Deal included programs such as the Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA), which aimed to boost agricultural prices by reducing surpluses.
  3. The National Industrial Recovery Act (NIRA) was another key component that sought to stimulate industrial growth and improve labor conditions.
  4. Roosevelt's New Deal faced criticism from both conservatives, who believed it expanded government too much, and liberals, who argued it did not go far enough in addressing social issues.
  5. The legacy of the New Deal included a significant shift in the relationship between the federal government and the American public, laying the groundwork for future social welfare programs.

Review Questions

  • How did Roosevelt's New Deal programs specifically aim to address unemployment during the Great Depression?
    • Roosevelt's New Deal included various initiatives designed to combat unemployment, such as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the Public Works Administration (PWA). The CCC provided jobs for young men to work on environmental projects, while the PWA funded large-scale public works projects like bridges and schools. These efforts not only created millions of jobs but also helped to build infrastructure that benefited communities across the country.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of Roosevelt's New Deal in bringing about economic recovery during the Great Depression.
    • The effectiveness of Roosevelt's New Deal in economic recovery can be seen through various metrics such as job creation and GDP growth. While some programs were successful in reducing unemployment and stimulating economic activity, critics argue that it was World War II that truly pulled America out of the Great Depression. Nevertheless, New Deal policies laid the foundation for a more active government role in economic management, which has had lasting effects on American society.
  • Analyze how Roosevelt's New Deal transformed the relationship between American citizens and their government in response to economic crises.
    • Roosevelt's New Deal fundamentally changed how American citizens viewed their government, establishing an expectation for federal involvement in economic stability and social welfare. Prior to this era, many citizens relied more on local and state governments for support; however, the New Deal programs signaled a shift towards a larger federal presence. This transformation fostered a new sense of accountability among citizens, as they began to expect their government to intervene during crises and provide assistance, which has continued to influence public policy debates today.