Federal Emergency Relief Administration

Definition

The Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) was a New Deal program established in 1933 to provide direct relief for the unemployed and their families during the Great Depression. FERA aimed to alleviate the suffering caused by the economic crisis through monetary aid and job creation programs, emphasizing immediate assistance to those in need while also setting the groundwork for future recovery efforts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. FERA was created by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as part of his response to the widespread poverty and unemployment during the Great Depression.
2. The program initially distributed $500 million in federal funds to state governments, which were then tasked with administering relief to local communities.
3. FERA's approach focused not only on providing financial assistance but also on encouraging work relief through various job programs, effectively combining aid with employment opportunities.
4. In addition to direct financial assistance, FERA played a crucial role in supporting state welfare programs and establishing a foundation for social safety nets in the United States.
5. FERA was eventually replaced by other New Deal programs like the Works Progress Administration as the focus shifted toward longer-term recovery efforts.

Review Questions

• How did FERA impact local communities during the Great Depression?
  • FERA had a significant impact on local communities by distributing federal funds to help alleviate poverty and unemployment. By providing direct financial assistance to those in need, FERA enabled states to support their citizens during the economic crisis. Additionally, the emphasis on work relief helped create job opportunities, allowing individuals to regain their dignity and contribute to their communities while simultaneously addressing urgent needs.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of FERA in addressing the immediate challenges faced by Americans during the Great Depression.
  • FERA proved effective in providing immediate relief to millions of unemployed Americans by distributing funds directly to state governments for local aid programs. While it did not solve the underlying economic problems, its rapid response helped many families survive the harsh realities of the Great Depression. Furthermore, FERA set a precedent for future government involvement in social welfare, paving the way for more comprehensive recovery initiatives like the Works Progress Administration.
• Discuss how FERA's establishment reflects broader themes of government intervention in economic crises and its legacy in shaping social policy in America.
  • The establishment of FERA reflects a significant shift toward increased government intervention in response to economic crises, showcasing a willingness to provide direct aid to citizens in need. This approach marked a departure from previous practices that relied heavily on private charity and minimal government involvement. FERA's legacy lies in its role as a foundation for subsequent social welfare programs and policies, illustrating how government actions during times of crisis can reshape societal expectations regarding responsibility for economic stability and support for vulnerable populations.

Related terms

New Deal: A series of programs and policies implemented by President Franklin D. Roosevelt aimed at addressing the economic hardships of the Great Depression through social and economic reform.

Works Progress Administration: A New Deal agency that provided jobs for millions of unemployed Americans by carrying out public works projects, including construction of roads, bridges, and buildings.

Civilian Conservation Corps: A public work relief program that operated from 1933 to 1942, providing jobs for young men in environmental conservation projects, such as planting trees and building parks.