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History Grade 11 - Topic 2 Essay Questions

Essay Question:

To what extent did Roosevelt’s New Deal succeed in mitigating the negative effects of the Great Depression in USA in the 1930’s?  Present an argument in support of your answer using relevant historical evidence. [1]

Introduction:

On 29 October 1929 (also known as “Black Tuesday”), the United States (US) stock market crashed which initiated the Great Depression. [2]   After winning the US elections and taking office in 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt sought to bring economic relief to the US during the 1930’s by implementing a series of reforms and restructures in what he called the ‘New Deal’. [3]   Although the ‘New Deal’ succeeded somewhat in relieving economic situations on a macro-level, the “New Deal”, in the long run, is considered a failure as it did not ultimately succeed in what it was set out to do, which was to recover the economy from its “depressed state”. [4]   This statement will be discussed by analyzing the two phases of the “New Deal”, as well as discussing the effects of some of the relief, recovery and reform programs implemented.

The First Hundred Days

When analyzing the legacy of the “New Deal”, it is important to understand that there were two phases of the deal, namely the “First New Deal” and the “Second New Deal”.  The First New Deal consisted mainly of the first three months of Roosevelt’s presidency and is referred to as the “hundred days”. [5]   Within the first hundred days, various relief programs such as the “Federal Emergency Relief Administration” (FRA), the “Civilian Conservation Corps” and the “Agricultural Adjustment Act” were implemented in order to create employment opportunities for Americans as well as providing some extent of economic relief for struggling citizens. [6]

Another significant program that was implemented during the hundred days, was the “National Industrial Recovery Act” (NIRA).  This recovery act allowed working Americans to unionize and in a sense bargain for better working conditions, as well as wages. [7]   Roosevelt felt that a significant part of the recovery process will come from decreasing competition through using set prices, wages and commodities. [8]   Mixed reviews came from the implementation of these recovery acts, as many felt that corporate heads were being disadvantaged by the state, and in some instance some corporations felt as though their competition became the US government itself. [9]   However, on the larger part, many felt that the hundred days and the “First New Deal” was relatively successful as it was marked by a decrease in unemployment and the stabilization of US banks.

The Second New Deal

In 1935, Roosevelt decided that the New Deal should take a more aggressive approach in the attempt to diminish the Great Depression. [10]   This phase is known as the Second New Deal.  One of the more prominent acts implemented was the “Social Security” Act which provided the elderly and widowed people with some financial support, allowed some unemployment and disability compensation and set a framework or minimum wages and maximum work hours. [11]   Furthermore, the “Works Progress Administration” (WPA) was implemented to provide the unemployed with opportunities in the public sector.  These opportunities included building bridges, schools and roads. [12]   To some extent, the Great Deal built a platform for more financial security and opportunity for the American citizens during the onslaught of the Great Depression with its housing, employment and financial interventions. [13]

Criticism of the New Deal

When analyzing some of the programs and acts implemented by the Great Deal, one also has to mention points of criticism.  One of the more popular points of criticism stems from the “interventionalist” and anti-competitive nature of the New Deal. [14]   Larger companies and the Supreme Court also felt that some of the reform initiatives were unconstitutional and did not go through the right channels to implement reform acts. [15]   However, with this criticism in mind, the main reason why the New Deal was deemed unsuccessful, is simply because it did not achieve what it set out to do.  The American economy and employment rates did not recover enough for the New Deal to have remedied the effects of the Great Depression.  Rather, American entrance into the Second World War stimulated more economic growth than the New Deal. [16]

Therefore, one could say that the New Deal mitigated the effects of the Great Depression to an extent where it improved the employment rate from 25% of 1933 to 17% in 1939. [17]   One could also say that some of the relief and reform acts were deemed successful as some of them, such as the Social Security Act, still remains today. [18]   The New Deal also led to a, albeit short-lived, coalition between “white working people, African Americans and left-wing intellectuals”. [19]   Many also argue that the New Deal built a surface for the future economy of America post-World War Two. [20]   However, with regards to the mitigation of the Great Depression itself, the New Deal ultimately did not succeed in ending the Great Depression and its effects.

This content was originally produced for the SAHO classroom by Sebastian Moronell, Ayabulela Ntwakumba, Simone van der Colff & Thandile Xesi.

[1] National Senior Certificate.: “Grade 11 November 2017 History Paper 1 Exam,” National Senior Certificate, November 2017.

[2] M, Johnston.: “The Economic Effects of the New Deal,” Investopedia [online].  Accessed 20 March 2021 ( https://www.investopedia.com/articles/investing/011116/economic-effects-new-deal.asp ).

[3] History.  Editors of History.: “New Deal,” History [online].  Accessed 20 March 2021 ( https://www.history.com/topics/great-depression/new-deal ).

[4] Johnston, M.: “The Economic Effects of the New Deal,” Investopedia [online].  Accessed 20 March 2021 ( https://www.investopedia.com/articles/investing/011116/economic-effects-new-deal.asp ).

[5] Britannica, T. Editors of Encyclopaedia.: “New Deal,” Encyclopedia Britannica [online].  Accessed on 20 March 2021 ( https://www.britannica.com/event/New-Deal ).

[6] Fiorillo, S.: “What were the New Deal Programs and what did they do?” The Street [online].  Accessed on 24 March 2021 ( https://www.thestreet.com/politics/new-deal-programs-14861940 ).

[7] History.  Editors of History.: “New Deal,” History [online].  Accessed 20 March 2021 ( https://www.history.com/topics/great-depression/new-deal ).

[8] Fiorillo, S.: “What were the New Deal Programs and what did they do?” The Street [online].  Accessed on 24 March 2021 ( https://www.thestreet.com/politics/new-deal-programs-14861940 ).

[9] J. Green.: “The New Deal:  crash Course US History #34,” Crash Course [YouTube Online].  Accessed on 23 March 2021 ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6bMq9Ek6jnA&t=380s ).

[10] History.  Editors of History.: “New Deal,” History [online].  Accessed 20 March 2021 ( https://www.history.com/topics/great-depression/new-deal ).

[11] Britannica, T. Editors of Encyclopaedia.: “New Deal,” Encyclopedia Britannica [online].  Accessed on 20 March 2021 ( https://www.britannica.com/event/New-Deal ).

[12] History.  Editors of History.: “New Deal,” History [online].  Accessed 20 March 2021 ( https://www.history.com/topics/great-depression/new-deal ).

[13] D.M. Kennedy.: “What the New Deal Did,” Political Science Quarterly, (124), (2), 2009, pp. 265-267.

[14] M, Johnston.: “The Economic Effects of the New Deal,” Investopedia [online].  Accessed 20 March 2021 ( https://www.investopedia.com/articles/investing/011116/economic-effects-new-deal.asp ).

[15] History.  Editors of History.: “New Deal,” History [online].  Accessed 20 March 2021 ( https://www.history.com/topics/great-depression/new-deal ).

[16] History.  Editors of History.: “New Deal,” History [online].  Accessed 20 March 2021 ( https://www.history.com/topics/great-depression/new-deal ).

[17] Johnston, M.: “The Economic Effects of the New Deal,” Investopedia [online].  Accessed 20 March 2021 ( https://www.investopedia.com/articles/investing/011116/economic-effects-new-deal.asp ).

[18] Fiorillo, S.: “What were the New Deal Programs and what did they do?” The Street [online].  Accessed on 24 March 2021 ( https://www.thestreet.com/politics/new-deal-programs-14861940 ).

[19] History.  Editors of History.: “New Deal,” History [online].  Accessed 20 March 2021 ( https://www.history.com/topics/great-depression/new-deal ).

[20] D.M. Kennedy.: “What the New Deal Did,” Political Science Quarterly, (124), (2), 2009, p. 267.

• Britannica, T. Editors of Encyclopaedia.: “New Deal,” Encyclopedia Britannica [online], January 2021.  Accessed on 20 March 2021 ( https://www.britannica.com/event/New-Deal ).
• Fiorillo, S.: “What were the New Deal Programs and what did they do?” The Street [online].  Accessed on 24 March 2021 ( https://www.thestreet.com/politics/new-deal-programs-14861940 ). 
• Green, J.: “The New Deal:  Crash Course US History #34,” Crash Course [online].  Accessed on 24 March 2021 ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6bMq9Ek6jnA&t=391s ).
• History.  Editors of History.: “New Deal,” History [online], November 2021.  Accessed 20 March 2021 ( https://www.history.com/topics/great-depression/new-deal ).
• Johnston, M.: “The Economic Effects of the New Deal,” Investopedia [online], January 2021.  Accessed 20 March 2021 ( https://www.investopedia.com/articles/investing/011116/economic-effects-new-deal.asp ).
• Kennedy, D.M.: “What the New Deal Did,” Political Science Quarterly, (124),(2), 2009, pp. 251-268.

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The New Deal — A Guide to FDR’s Plan for Relief, Recovery, and Reform

The New Deal was a series of programs and policies implemented in the 1930s by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt in response to severe economic and social issues in the United States.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1944. Image Source: FDR Presidential Library & Museum on Flickr .

New Deal Summary

The New Deal was a series of programs and policies implemented in the 1930s by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt — commonly referred to as FDR — in response to severe economic and social issues in the United States. Each New Deal program and policy fell into one or more of three areas, known as the “Three Rs” — Relief, Recovery, and Reform.

At the end of the Roaring Twenties, the 1929 Stock Market Crash triggered the Great Depression started when the stock market crashed in 1929. Starting in 1931, the southwestern Great Plains suffered from a severe drought, which led to massive dust storms. The area was called “The Dust Bowl” and thousands of people were forced to abandon their homes and move west. In the wake of these events, Roosevelt ran for President in 1932, promising a “New Deal” for Americans, and defeated incumbent Herbert Hoover.

Roosevelt was inaugurated on March 4, 1933. In his First Inaugural Address, he delivered the famous line, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” FDR moved quickly to ease the effects of the Depression on Americans by passing New Deal legislation during “The First Hundred Days” of his Presidency.

FDR started by restoring faith in banks, which had suffered due to the stock market crash of 1929. A Bank Holiday was declared and Congress followed by passing the Emergency Banking Relief Act, which allowed the government to inspect the financial health of banks before allowing them to reopen.

The New Deal aimed to tackle unemployment by creating programs that provided job opportunities. The Civil Works Administration (CWA) and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) employed millions of Americans to work on infrastructure projects, such as building roads, bridges, and schools. Other programs, like the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), developed hydroelectric power plants to bring electricity to communities where none existed.

The New Deal also addressed labor relations by passing the National Labor Relations Act — also known as the (Wagner Act). It protected the rights of workers, allowing them to join unions and engage in collective bargaining. The act also established the Fair Labor Standards Act, which set a minimum wage for workers.

The New Deal programs and policies created a significant expansion of the Federal government. They also redefined the government’s role in dealing with economic and social issues. The New Deal was controversial when it was implemented, and its legacy continues to be debated by historians, economists, and others. However, the significance of the New Deal and its impact on the United States during the era leading up to World War II cannot be denied.

What did the New Deal do?

This video from the Daily Bellringer provides an overview of the New Deal and its programs. It also touches on the controversy caused by the New Deal which was caused by the expansion of the Federal Government.

New Deal Facts

• The name “New Deal” came from Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 1932 acceptance speech for the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination. In the speech, he said, “I pledge you, I pledge myself, to a new deal for the American people.”
• The New Deal was designed to deal with the economic and social issues created by the 1929 Stock Market Crash, the Great Depression, and the Dust Bow.
• On March 4, 1933, Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected President. He gave a speech on Capitol Plaza in Washington DC to 100,000 people. He said the “only thing we should be afraid of is fear itself.”
• He took action right away by calling Congress into a special session known as “The Hundred Days,” during which legislation was passed to deal with the Depression and provide economic aid to struggling Americans.
• In an effort to restore the public’s confidence in banks, FDR declared a Bank Holiday and Congress passed the Emergency Banking Relief Act.
• The New Deal dealt with unemployment by creating programs like the Civil Works Administration (CWA) and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), providing jobs for millions of Americans and improving the nation’s infrastructure.
• The New Deal was followed by the Second New Deal, which included the National Labor Relations Act, the  Works Progress Administration, and the Social Security Act.
• The New Deal also included labor-related legislation, such as the National Labor Relations Act (Wagner Act) and the Fair Labor Standards Act, which gave workers the right to join unions, negotiate collectively, and established a minimum wage.
• The New Deal paved the way for the repeal of the 18th Amendment, which established Prohibition. The Beer-Wine Revenue Act of 1933 amended the Volstead Act by raising the amount of alcohol allowed to 3.2 percent and also levied a tax.
• Social programs established by the New Deal are still in effect today, including Social Security and the “Food Stamp Plan.”

New Deal AP US History (APUSH) Terms, Definitions, and FAQs

This section provides terms, definitions, and Frequently Asked Questions about the New Deal and the Second New Deal, including people, events, and programs. Also, be sure to look at our Guide to the AP US History Exam .

The New Deal was a series of policies and programs implemented by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the 1930s in response to the Great Depression. The New Deal aimed to provide relief to the unemployed and poor, promote economic recovery, and reform the financial system. The New Deal included programs such as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA), and the National Recovery Administration (NRA). It also created numerous agencies and programs such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), and the Social Security Administration.

The second phase of the New Deal, which was enacted in 1935. The Second New Deal focused on providing economic security to Americans through the creation of Social Security and other welfare programs. It also included measures to stimulate the economy, such as the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). The Second New Deal was instrumental in helping to alleviate poverty and providing employment opportunities during the Great Depression.

FDR’s Alphabet Soup refers to the numerous programs and agencies created during Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidency as part of the New Deal. These initiatives, often known by their acronyms, aimed to provide relief, recovery, and reform during the Great Depression. Examples include the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps), the TVA (Tennessee Valley Authority), and the WPA (Works Progress Administration).

The New Deal was a series of economic programs and reforms enacted by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the Great Depression. The New Deal sought to provide relief, recovery, and reform to the American economy. It included programs such as Social Security, the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), and the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). These programs were instrumental in helping to protect workers’ rights and providing employment opportunities during the Great Depression. However, the New Deal was controversial, with some arguing it was a “raw deal” for workers and others arguing that it helped to alleviate the suffering of millions of Americans.

The three Rs of the New Deal were 1) Relief for the needy, 2) Recovery of the economy, and 3) Reform of the financial system. Each of the New Deal Programs generally fell into one of these areas. The goal of the three Rs was to keep the United States from falling into another Economic Depression.

New Deal People and Groups

Herbert Hoover — Herbert Hoover served as the 31st President of the United States from 1929 to 1933. He faced the immense challenges of the Great Depression and was criticized for his belief in limited government intervention. Despite his efforts to address the crisis, Hoover’s presidency is often associated with economic hardships and the initial response to the Depression.

John L. Lewis — An American labor leader who was instrumental in the formation of the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) in 1935. He was a key figure in the Second New Deal and helped to pass the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). He was also responsible for leading several major strikes during the Great Depression, including the United Mine Workers strike of 1934. Lewis worked to protect workers’ rights and provide employment opportunities during the Great Depression.

Franklin D. Roosevelt — Franklin D. Roosevelt was the 32nd President of the United States, serving from 1933 to 1945. He was elected to the presidency during the Great Depression, and his presidency is closely associated with the New Deal, a series of policies and programs aimed at addressing the economic crisis and promoting economic recovery. He was re-elected for an unprecedented four terms and his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II solidified the role of the Federal government in the American economy and society.

Eleanor Roosevelt — The wife of Franklin D. Roosevelt and one of the most influential First Ladies in American history. She was an advocate for civil rights and women’s rights, and she used her position to promote social reform.

FDR’s Brain Trust — A group of advisors to President Franklin D. Roosevelt who helped him develop the New Deal. They included prominent academics and intellectuals such as Raymond Moley, Rexford Tugwell, and Adolf Berle.

New Deal Democrats —  New Deal Democrats were a faction within the Democratic Party during the 1930s and 1940s that supported Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal policies. These Democrats supported increasing government intervention in the economy and expanding social welfare programs.

United Mine Workers — A labor union that was formed in 1890. The union was instrumental in the formation of the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) in 1935 and led several major strikes during the Great Depression, including the United Mine Workers strike of 1934.

Hundred Days Congress — The Hundred Days Congress was a special session of the United States Congress that ran from March 9 to June 16, 1933. It was called in response to the economic crisis of the Great Depression and was used to pass a number of laws known as the New Deal. During this period, President Franklin D. Roosevelt proposed a series of sweeping reforms designed to provide relief for those affected by the depression, as well as to stimulate the economy. The Hundred Days Congress passed a number of laws, including the Emergency Banking Relief Act, the Glass-Steagall Act, and the National Industrial Recovery Act.

New Deal Events

1932 Presidential Election — The 1932 Presidential Election marked a pivotal moment in American history as the nation grappled with the Great Depression. It was primarily a contest between Republican incumbent Herbert Hoover and Democratic candidate Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR). FDR emerged victorious, promising a “New Deal” to combat the Depression and implementing a series of reforms that fundamentally reshaped the role of the federal government.

Bank Holiday — A bank holiday is a period of time during which banks are closed, usually by government order. In 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared a national bank holiday in order to address the banking crisis caused by the Great Depression. During the holiday, which lasted four days, the government examined the books of all banks and only those that were found to be sound were allowed to reopen. This action helped stabilize the banking system and restore public confidence in banks.

Fireside Chats — The Fireside Chats were a series of radio addresses given by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during his presidency. The chats were designed to provide the American people with information about the government’s policies and actions and to explain the reasoning behind them in plain language. The chats were informal and conversational in tone, and they were delivered from the White House, often in the evening, giving the impression that Roosevelt was speaking directly to the American people from the warmth and comfort of their own homes. The Fireside Chats were a powerful tool for Roosevelt to communicate with the American people, build public support for his policies and maintain public confidence during a time of economic crisis.

Great Depression — The Great Depression refers to the severe economic downturn that occurred in the United States and other countries during the 1930s. It was characterized by widespread unemployment, poverty, and a sharp decline in industrial production and trade—ultimately leading to a fundamental restructuring of the American economy and significant social and political changes.

Roosevelt Recession — A period of economic contraction that occurred during the Great Depression, starting in 1937 and lasting until 1938. It was caused by a combination of factors, including President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s decision to reduce government spending, an increase in taxes, and the Federal Reserve’s decision to raise interest rates. This resulted in a decrease in consumer spending and investment, leading to a decrease in economic activity. The Roosevelt Recession was a major setback for the New Deal and led to increased unemployment and poverty.

United Mine Workers Strike of 1934 — A major strike led by the United Mine Workers Union during the Great Depression. The strike was in response to wage cuts and other grievances. It lasted for several months and resulted in a victory for the miners, who were able to secure higher wages and better working conditions.

New Deal Programs

Agricultural Adjustment Act (1933) — A law passed by Congress in 1933 as part of the New Deal. The AAA was designed to help farmers by providing subsidies for reducing crop production and encouraging soil conservation. It also established the Agricultural Adjustment Administration (AAA), which was responsible for implementing the provisions of the act. The AAA was instrumental in helping to stabilize agricultural prices and providing economic relief to farmers during the Great Depression.

Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) — The CCC provided employment for young men between the ages of 18 and 25, who were paid to work on conservation projects such as planting trees, building roads, and constructing dams. The CCC also provided educational opportunities for its workers, including classes in literacy, math, and vocational skills. The CCC was instrumental in helping to restore the environment and providing employment opportunities during the Great Depression.

Civil Works Administration (CWA) — An agency created by the Federal Emergency Relief Act of 1933 as part of the New Deal. The CWA was responsible for providing jobs to millions of Americans during the Great Depression. It provided employment in construction, repair, and maintenance projects such as building roads, bridges, and public buildings. The CWA was instrumental in helping to alleviate poverty and providing employment opportunities during the Great Depression.

Emergency Banking Relief Act (1933) — A law passed by Congress in 1933 which allowed the federal government to provide emergency loans to banks in order to stabilize the banking system. The act was part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal and was designed to restore public confidence in the banking system. It provided for the reopening of solvent banks, the reorganization of insolvent banks, and the establishment of a Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to insure deposits up to $2,500. The act was instrumental in helping to stabilize the banking system during the Great Depression and restoring public confidence in banks.

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) — An independent agency of the United States government created in 1933 as part of the New Deal. The FDIC provides insurance for deposits up to a certain amount in member banks, protecting depositors from losses due to bank failures. The FDIC also regulates and supervises financial institutions to ensure that they are operating safely and soundly. It is one of the most important financial regulatory agencies in the United States and has helped to restore public confidence in the banking system.

Federal Emergency Relief Act (1933) — A law passed by Congress in 1933 as part of the New Deal. The FERA provided federal funds to states and local governments to create relief programs for the unemployed. It also established the Civil Works Administration (CWA), which was responsible for providing jobs to millions of Americans during the Great Depression. The FERA was instrumental in helping to alleviate poverty and providing employment opportunities during the Great Depression.

Federal Housing Administration (FHA) — An agency created by the National Housing Act of 1934 as part of the New Deal. The FHA was responsible for providing mortgage insurance to lenders, which allowed them to make home loans with lower down payments and easier credit requirements. This helped to increase homeownership and provided jobs to thousands of Americans during the Great Depression. The FHA helped stabilize the housing market and provide employment opportunities during the Great Depression.

Glass-Steagall Act (1933) — The Glass-Steagall Act was a law passed by Congress in 1933 as part of the New Deal. It was designed to separate commercial and investment banking, and it prohibited banks from engaging in certain types of speculative investments. The act also established the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), which provided insurance for bank deposits up to a certain amount. The Glass-Steagall Act helped restore public confidence in the banking system and prevent another financial crisis.

National Industrial Recovery Act (1933) —  The National Industrial Recovery Act (NIRA) was a law passed by Congress in 1933 as part of the New Deal. It was designed to stimulate economic growth by providing government assistance to businesses, setting minimum wages and maximum hours for workers, and establishing codes of fair competition. The NIRA also established the National Recovery Administration (NRA), which was responsible for enforcing the provisions of the act. The NIRA was eventually declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in 1935.

The Public Works Administration (PWA) — An agency created by the National Recovery Administration of 1933 as part of the New Deal. The PWA was responsible for providing jobs to millions of Americans during the Great Depression. It provided employment in construction, repair, and maintenance projects such as building roads, bridges, and public buildings. The PWA played an important role in helping to alleviate poverty and providing employment opportunities during the Great Depression.

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) — An agency created by the Tennessee Valley Authority Act of 1933 as part of the New Deal. The TVA was responsible for developing the infrastructure and resources of the Tennessee Valley region, including hydroelectric power, flood control, navigation, reforestation, and soil conservation. It also provided jobs to thousands of Americans during the Great Depression. The TVA played an important role in helping modernize the region and providing employment opportunities during the Great Depression.

Second New Deal Programs

Committee for Industrial Organizations (CIO) — An organization formed in 1935 as part of the Second New Deal. The CIO was responsible for organizing workers into unions and bargaining collectively with employers.

Fair Labor Standards Act (1938) — An act passed in 1938 as part of the Second New Deal. The Fair Labor Standards Act was responsible for establishing a minimum wage, overtime pay, and other labor standards.

National Labor Relations Act (1935) — An act passed in 1935 as part of the Second New Deal. The NLRA was responsible for protecting the rights of workers to organize and bargain collectively with their employers. It also established the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), which was responsible for enforcing the provisions of the act.

Social Security Act (1935) — An act passed as part of the Second New Deal. The Social Security Act was responsible for providing economic security to Americans through the establishment of a federal retirement program and other welfare programs. It also provided unemployment insurance and disability benefits.

Wagner Act — Also known as the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), it was passed in 1935 as part of the Second New Deal. The Wagner Act was responsible for protecting the rights of workers to organize and bargain collectively with their employers. It also established the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), which was responsible for enforcing the provisions of the act.

Works Progress Administration (WPA) — An agency created by the Emergency Relief Appropriation Act of 1935 as part of the Second New Deal. The WPA was responsible for providing jobs to millions of Americans during the Great Depression. It funded a variety of projects, including construction, infrastructure development, and arts and culture programs. The WPA was instrumental in helping to stimulate the economy and providing employment opportunities during the Great Depression.

More New Deal Terms and Definitions

21st Amendment — The amendment to the U.S. Constitution that repealed the 18th Amendment and ended Prohibition. The 21st Amendment was ratified in 1933 as part of the New Deal and allowed states to regulate the sale and consumption of alcohol within their borders. It also gave states the power to collect taxes on alcohol sales, which provided a much-needed source of revenue during the Great Depression.

Boondoggling — A term coined by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to describe wasteful government spending on public works projects. The term was used to criticize the New Deal programs, which were seen as a form of government waste and corruption. Boondoggling became a popular term during the Great Depression and is still used today to refer to any wasteful or unnecessary government spending.

Tennessee River Valley — The Tennessee River Valley refers to the region in the southeastern United States encompassing parts of Tennessee, Alabama, and Kentucky. It gained prominence during the New Deal era due to the establishment of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), a federal agency tasked with developing the area’s water resources, controlling flooding, and promoting economic development through hydroelectric power generation and irrigation projects.

National Parks — National Parks are protected areas designated by the federal government to preserve and showcase the country’s natural, historical, and cultural heritage. These areas, managed by the National Park Service, offer opportunities for recreation, conservation, and education. Notable examples include Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon. National Parks serve as significant landmarks and contribute to the nation’s tourism industry and environmental conservation efforts.

Why is the New Deal important?

The New Deal is important to United States history for several reasons:

1. Response to the Great Depression: The New Deal was a direct response to the economic crisis of the Great Depression, which was one of the most challenging periods in American history. It represented a major shift in the role of the federal government in addressing economic issues and providing relief to citizens.

2. Economic Recovery and Relief: The New Deal implemented a range of programs and policies aimed at stabilizing the economy, creating jobs, and providing relief to those affected by the Great Depression. It helped alleviate immediate suffering and provided assistance to millions of Americans through employment, financial aid, and social welfare programs.

3. Expansion of Federal Government Power: The New Deal marked a significant expansion of the federal government’s role in regulating the economy and addressing social issues. It introduced new agencies and programs, such as the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and Social Security, that had long-lasting impacts on American society and established a precedent for increased government intervention in the economy.

4. Transformation of American Society: The New Deal’s programs had a transformative effect on American society. It brought about improvements in infrastructure, public works, and conservation projects, enhancing the nation’s physical landscape. It also introduced labor reforms, such as the right to unionize and the establishment of minimum wage standards, which aimed to improve working conditions and workers’ rights.

5. Legacy and Long-Term Impacts: Many of the programs and policies initiated during the New Deal era had lasting impacts on American society. Social Security, for example, continues to provide financial security to elderly and disabled Americans. The New Deal also shaped the political landscape, as the Democratic Party under FDR gained support from various social groups and established a coalition that would dominate American politics for decades.

• Written by Randal Rust

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By: History.com Editors

Updated: March 28, 2023 | Original: October 29, 2009

The New Deal was a series of programs and projects instituted during the Great Depression by President Franklin D. Roosevelt that aimed to restore prosperity to Americans. When Roosevelt took office in 1933, he acted swiftly to stabilize the economy and provide jobs and relief to those who were suffering. Over the next eight years, the government instituted a series of experimental New Deal projects and programs, such as the CCC , the WPA , the TVA, the SEC and others. Roosevelt’s New Deal fundamentally and permanently changed the U.S. federal government by expanding its size and scope—especially its role in the economy.

New Deal for the American People

On March 4, 1933, during the bleakest days of the Great Depression , newly elected President Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered his first inaugural address before 100,000 people on Washington’s Capitol Plaza.

“First of all,” he said, “let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”

He promised that he would act swiftly to face the “dark realities of the moment” and assured Americans that he would “wage a war against the emergency” just as though “we were in fact invaded by a foreign foe.” His speech gave many people confidence that they’d elected a man who was not afraid to take bold steps to solve the nation’s problems.

Did you know? Unemployment levels in some cities reached staggering levels during the Great Depression: By 1933, Toledo, Ohio's had reached 80 percent, and nearly 90 percent of Lowell, Massachusetts, was unemployed.

The next day, Roosevelt declared a four-day bank holiday to stop people from withdrawing their money from shaky banks. On March 9, Congress passed Roosevelt’s Emergency Banking Act, which reorganized the banks and closed the ones that were insolvent.

In his first “ fireside chat ” three days later, the president urged Americans to put their savings back in the banks, and by the end of the month almost three quarters of them had reopened.

The First Hundred Days

Roosevelt’s quest to end the Great Depression was just beginning, and would ramp up in what came to be known as “ The First 100 Days .” Roosevelt kicked things off by asking Congress to take the first step toward ending Prohibition —one of the more divisive issues of the 1920s—by making it legal once again for Americans to buy beer. (At the end of the year, Congress ratified the 21st Amendment and ended Prohibition for good.)

In May, he signed the Tennessee Valley Authority Act into law, creating the TVA and enabling the federal government to build dams along the Tennessee River that controlled flooding and generated inexpensive hydroelectric power for the people in the region.

That same month, Congress passed a bill that paid commodity farmers (farmers who produced things like wheat, dairy products, tobacco and corn) to leave their fields fallow in order to end agricultural surpluses and boost prices.

June’s National Industrial Recovery Act guaranteed that workers would have the right to unionize and bargain collectively for higher wages and better working conditions; it also suspended some antitrust laws and established a federally funded Public Works Administration.

In addition to the Agricultural Adjustment Act, the Tennessee Valley Authority Act and the National Industrial Recovery Act, Roosevelt had won passage of 12 other major laws, including the Glass-Steagall Act (an important banking bill) and the Home Owners’ Loan Act, in his first 100 days in office.

Almost every American found something to be pleased about and something to complain about in this motley collection of bills, but it was clear to all that FDR was taking the “direct, vigorous” action that he’d promised in his inaugural address.

Second New Deal

Despite the best efforts of President Roosevelt and his cabinet, however, the Great Depression continued. Unemployment persisted, the economy remained unstable, farmers continued to struggle in the Dust Bowl and people grew angrier and more desperate.

So, in the spring of 1935, Roosevelt launched a second, more aggressive series of federal programs, sometimes called the Second New Deal.

In April, he created the Works Progress Administration (WPA) to provide jobs for unemployed people. WPA projects weren’t allowed to compete with private industry, so they focused on building things like post offices, bridges, schools, highways and parks. The WPA also gave work to artists, writers, theater directors and musicians.

In July 1935, the National Labor Relations Act , also known as the Wagner Act, created the National Labor Relations Board to supervise union elections and prevent businesses from treating their workers unfairly. In August, FDR signed the Social Security Act of 1935, which guaranteed pensions to millions of Americans, set up a system of unemployment insurance and stipulated that the federal government would help care for dependent children and the disabled.

In 1936, while campaigning for a second term, FDR told a roaring crowd at Madison Square Garden that “The forces of ‘organized money’ are unanimous in their hate for me—and I welcome their hatred.”

He went on: “I should like to have it said of my first Administration that in it the forces of selfishness and of lust for power met their match, [and] I should like to have it said of my second Administration that in it these forces have met their master.”

This FDR had come a long way from his earlier repudiation of class-based politics and was promising a much more aggressive fight against the people who were profiting from the Depression-era troubles of ordinary Americans. He won the election by a landslide.

Still, the Great Depression dragged on. Workers grew more militant: In December 1936, for example, the United Auto Workers strike at a GM plant in Flint, Michigan lasted for 44 days and spread to some 150,000 autoworkers in 35 cities.

By 1937, to the dismay of most corporate leaders, some 8 million workers had joined unions and were loudly demanding their rights.

9 New Deal Infrastructure Projects That Changed America

The Hoover Dam, LaGuardia Airport and the Bay Bridge were all part of FDR's New Deal investment.

How a New Deal Housing Program Enforced Segregation

In the 1930s, the FHA refused to insure houses for Black families, or even insure houses in white neighborhoods that were too close to Black ones.

Did New Deal Programs Help End the Great Depression?

While the New Deal did have a lasting impact on the U.S. economy, other significant factors contributed toward ending the Great Depression by June 1938.

The End of the New Deal?

Meanwhile, the New Deal itself confronted one political setback after another. Arguing that they represented an unconstitutional extension of federal authority, the conservative majority on the Supreme Court had already invalidated reform initiatives like the National Recovery Administration and the Agricultural Adjustment Administration.

In order to protect his programs from further meddling, in 1937 President Roosevelt announced a plan to add enough liberal justices to the Court to neutralize the “obstructionist” conservatives.

This “ Court-packing ” turned out to be unnecessary—soon after they caught wind of the plan, the conservative justices started voting to uphold New Deal projects—but the episode did a good deal of public-relations damage to the administration and gave ammunition to many of the president’s Congressional opponents.

That same year, the economy slipped back into a recession when the government reduced its stimulus spending. Despite this seeming vindication of New Deal policies, increasing anti-Roosevelt sentiment made it difficult for him to enact any new programs.

On December 7, 1941, the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor and the United States entered World War II . The war effort stimulated American industry and, as a result, effectively ended the Great Depression .

The New Deal and American Politics

From 1933 until 1941, President Roosevelt’s New Deal programs and policies did more than just adjust interest rates, tinker with farm subsidies and create short-term make-work programs.

They created a brand-new, if tenuous, political coalition that included white working people, African Americans and left-wing intellectuals. More women entered the workforce as Roosevelt expanded the number of secretarial roles in government. These groups rarely shared the same interests—at least, they rarely thought they did— but they did share a powerful belief that an interventionist government was good for their families, the economy and the nation.

Their coalition has splintered over time, but many of the New Deal programs that bound them together—Social Security, unemployment insurance and federal agricultural subsidies, for instance—are still with us today.

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New Deal Causes and Effects

The New Deal: APUSH Topics to Study for Test Day

The New Deal was a series of federal programs and projects enacted by Franklin D. Roosevelt in the 1930s. The goal of the New Deal was to help the nation recover from the effects of the Great Depression. New Deal APUSH questions may test your knowledge on the effects of specific programs, or how Roosevelt’s policy changed the role of the federal government.

What is the New Deal?

The New Deal was Roosevelt’s response to the economic crisis following the stock market crash in 1929. The New Deal consisted of social, economic, and financial measures that aimed to provide relief for those affected by the Great Depression by reducing unemployment, stimulating the economy, and regulating the financial system. Between 1933 and 1938, Roosevelt put a number of programs into place. Some proved to be short-lived, and others have endured in the decades following their original implementation. The New Deal’s programs helped the country stay afloat until the industrial boon during World War II lifted the country out of the Great Depression.

Key New Deal Programs:

• Emergency Banking Relief Act(1933): This act gave the president vast power over the banks, and provided a means for banks to reopen under federal supervision.
• Glass-Steagall Banking Act (1933): This act separated commercial and investment banking.
• Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (1933): The FDIC was created to insure bank deposits.
• Civilian Conservation Corps (1933): The CCC provided opportunities for temporary-work on federal lands, such as parks and forests.
• Tennessee Valley Authority (1933): The TVA allowed for the federal planning and building of dams along the Tennessee River, providing hydroelectric power to the region.
• Agricultural Adjustment Act (1933, 1938): The AAA reduced surpluses by regulating crop production through federal subsidies.
• Securities Exchange Act (1934): This act created the Securities Exchange Commission to oversee the regulation of the financial industry.
• National Labor Relations Act (1933): This act protected the right for laborers to organize and engage in collective bargaining.
• Social Security Act (1935): This act created the system of federal pensions and unemployment insurance still in place today.
• Works Progress Administration (1935): The WPA allowed the federal government to fund state and local public works projects as well as directly hire millions of unemployed Americans.

Important years to note for the New Deal:

• 1929: The stock market crashes, ushering the Great Depression
• 1932: Roosevelt promises a “new deal” for Americans as he accepts the presidential nomination
• 1933: In Roosevelt’s first 100 days in office, he works with Congress to enact numerous programs and projects
• 1941: The U.S. enters World War II, and the ensuing industrial stimulus ends the Great Depression and the need for further New Deal legislation

Why is the New Deal so important?

The New Deal alleviated the effects of the Great Depression and put millions of American back to work. Through the regulation of banks and financial markets, it likely averted further damage to the economy. Some of the programs, like Social Security, are still in place today and continue to provide financial assistance to vulnerable populations. The reforms on the banks and the financial industry ushered in a new era of oversight of the free markets. In general, the New Deal reformed the way the federal government interacted with local governments and the private sector. The traditional attitude was for an economic crisis to run its course, despite its social costs. This was the policy of Herbert Hoover, and a major reason for Roosevelt’s election. Roosevelt saw a need for the federal government to intervene, and his promise of sweeping reforms appealed to the poor and unemployed who were desperate for relief. Many saw his New Deal as a meddlesome overreach of power; however, his domestic policy endured and forever changed the relationship of the federal government, the free market, and the American citizen.

What are some historical people related to the New Deal?

Franklin D. Roosevelt: Proposed and enacted the New Deal

What example question about the New Deal might come up on the APUSH exam?

Which criticism of the New Deal is most closely represented by the image? A) Roosevelt’s plan did not go far enough and should have nationalized the U.S. banking system. B) Roosevelt’s reforms missed the opportunity to generate revenue by taxing excessive wealth. C) Roosevelt’s programs created a class conflict that damaged the country’s social fabric. D) Roosevelt’s restructuring of the executive branch was a step towards an imperialistic presidency.

The correct answer is (D). A major criticism of the New Deal was that it granted too much power to the executive branch. In 1937 the administration submitted a reorganization plan that many saw as an attempt to give more power to the president. This plan, along with his court-packing plan, was unpopular among republicans and even labeled dictatorial. In general the New Deal was met with the criticism that its programs overstepped the authority of the executive branch and the federal government.

Sarah is an educator and writer with a Master’s degree in education from Syracuse University who has helped students succeed on standardized tests since 2008. She loves reading, theater, and chasing around her two kids.

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History Resources

The Great Depression and The New Deal

By wendy thowdis, essential questions.

• What should be the role of government in solving a national crisis?
• How effective were the responses of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s administration to the problems of the Great Depression?

Objectives 

• Write a Document Based Essay that demonstrates proper writing skills.
• Critically analyze primary source documents to explore the role of government during a national crisis.
• Develop a thorough understanding of how FDR politically and economically approached the vast problems of the Great Depression.
• Develop an understanding of the New Deal and be able to discuss both positive aspects and criticisms of this plan.
• Writing a Document Based Essay: A 10 Step Approach  (PDF)
• Historical Context, Directions and Task  (PDF)
• Document Packet  (PDF)
• Creating a Document Based Essay  (PDF)

Teach the students how you expect them to write the DBQ essay. Use the attached list of guidelines. (Writing a Document Based Essay: A 10 Step Approach) and hand out the Document Based Essay: A 10 Step Approach

Teach through the Historical Context, Directions and Task (attached) for the DBQ and model how students should get started with this task. Break down each of the ten steps so they see what is expected.

Have them write their thesis paragraph in class in groups of three and swap papers to look for the three guiding principles:

• Did you take a position?
• Did you offer an interpretation of the question?
• Did you offer organizing or controlling ideas which will form the paragraphs of the body?
• Have them complete the rest of the work on the essay at home

Additional Activity

Have the students create Document Based Essay. Use the attached list of directions (Creating a Document Based Essay) as a guideline to develop their own DBQ.

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Home — Essay Samples — History — History of the United States — The New Deal

Essays on The New Deal

The new deal essay, types of the new deal essay.

• Cause and Effect Essay
• Compare and Contrast Essay
• Analysis Essay

Cause and Effect Essay about The New Deal

• Conduct thorough research: To write a well-informed New Deal Cause and Effect Essay, it is essential to conduct extensive research. This research should involve reading primary and secondary sources, including books, articles, and government reports, to gain an in-depth understanding of the topic.
• Develop a thesis statement: A thesis statement is a central argument or claim that guides the essay's content. It should be specific and concise and clearly outline the essay's main ideas and arguments.
• Organize the essay: In this type of essay, it is essential to have a clear and logical structure. The essay should have an introduction that outlines the topic and the thesis statement, followed by body paragraphs that discuss the causes and effects of the New Deal, and a conclusion that summarizes the main points and reiterates the thesis statement.
• Use evidence to support arguments: It is crucial to use relevant evidence to support the arguments presented in the essay. This evidence can be in the form of statistical data, quotes from primary sources, or expert opinions.
• Edit and proofread: Before submitting the essay, it is essential to edit and proofread it thoroughly. This process involves checking for spelling and grammar errors, ensuring that the essay's structure is logical and coherent, and ensuring that the arguments presented are well-supported and logically sound.

Compare and Contrast Essay about The New Deal

• Choose a specific aspect of The New Deal to compare and contrast. Some possible topics could include the similarities and differences between the Emergency Banking Act and the Glass-Steagall Act, the effectiveness of the Civilian Conservation Corps and the Works Progress Administration in providing employment, or the similarities and differences between the Agricultural Adjustment Act and the National Industrial Recovery Act.
• Make a list of the similarities and differences between the two or more aspects of The New Deal that you are comparing. Consider factors such as goals, methods, impact, and public perception.
• Develop a clear thesis statement that highlights the main points of your comparison and contrast.
• Organize your essay in a way that clearly presents the similarities and differences between the aspects of The New Deal that you are comparing. One common approach is to use a block or point-by-point structure.
• Use specific examples and evidence to support your analysis. This could include statistics, historical accounts, or primary source documents.
• Make connections between the similarities and differences you have identified and draw conclusions about the successes and failures of The New Deal as a whole.

The New Deal: Analysis Essay

• Choose a specific aspect of the New Deal to focus on, such as the Civilian Conservation Corps, the Agricultural Adjustment Act, or the National Industrial Recovery Act.
• Conduct extensive research to gather relevant information and data related to the chosen topic.
• Analyze the effectiveness of the New Deal policies in addressing the challenges of the Great Depression.
• Evaluate the impact of the New Deal on the country's economy and society.
• Use examples and evidence to support the arguments made in the essay.
• Provide a critical analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the New Deal policies and their outcomes.
• Use clear and concise language and maintain a logical flow of ideas throughout the essay.

Tips on How to Choose a Topic

• Consider the type of essay you want to write and select a topic that fits the requirements.
• Research the various aspects of The New Deal, including the policies implemented and their effects.
• Choose a topic that interests you and that you have a strong opinion on.
• Look for gaps in the existing research and choose a topic that allows you to contribute new ideas.

Hook Examples for The New Deal Essays

Anecdotal hook.

Imagine living through the Great Depression, struggling to make ends meet, and suddenly, a series of government programs comes to your rescue. This was the reality for millions of Americans during the era of the New Deal.

Question Hook

Did Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal policies truly pull the United States out of economic despair, or did they sow the seeds of long-term government intervention in the economy? Explore the lasting impact of this pivotal period.

Quotation Hook

"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself." — Franklin D. Roosevelt. Discover the context and significance of this famous quote from FDR's inaugural address as it relates to the New Deal's mission to restore hope and confidence.

Statistical or Factual Hook

During the New Deal, over 15 million Americans were employed through various relief programs. Delve into the numbers and programs that aimed to combat unemployment and economic hardship.

Definition Hook

What exactly was the New Deal, and what were its key components? Unpack the policies, acts, and agencies that comprised this comprehensive government response to the Great Depression.

Rhetorical Question Hook

Can government intervention in the economy effectively stimulate recovery during times of crisis, or does it risk overreach and unintended consequences? Investigate the debates surrounding the New Deal's role in shaping economic policy.

Historical Hook

Travel back to the 1930s to explore the dire economic conditions and social challenges that prompted the implementation of the New Deal. Understand the historical context in which these policies emerged.

Contrast Hook

Contrast the New Deal's approach to economic recovery with previous laissez-faire policies. Analyze the shift in government philosophy and its implications for the role of the state in citizens' lives.

Narrative Hook

Follow the journey of a family impacted by the New Deal, from unemployment lines to the benefits of programs like the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Their story illuminates the tangible effects of these policies.

Shocking Statement Hook

Prepare to be astonished by the sheer scale and ambition of the New Deal, which aimed to not only rescue the economy but also reshape society. Explore the bold initiatives and controversies that surrounded this era.

Comparison of President Woodrow Wilson and Franklin D. Roosevelt

What if the great depression never happened, made-to-order essay as fast as you need it.

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A Comparison of Theodore Roosevelt and Franklin Roosevelt

Relief, recovery and reform programs in the usa: the new deal, the new deal and its impact on america, the legacy of the new deal for america, let us write you an essay from scratch.

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The Factors that Opened The Door for The United States to Deal with The Great Depression at The Start of World War Ii

Causes of the great depression and a critical view on the new deal, the objectives of franklin roosevelt's new deal program after the great depression, the debate over the effectiveness of the new deal for african americans, get a personalized essay in under 3 hours.

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Research of How Successful The New Deal Was for Society and Economy

Why the new deal was significant to america, the impact of franklin d. roosevelt’s the new deal on america, comparative analysis of the new deal and the new green deal, successes and failures of the new deal, the great depression and the new deal, how neoliberal ideology threatens democracy: analysis of the new deal, the new deal: franklin d. roosevelt vs herbert hoover, the new deal: effectiveness and impact on the usa, new deal programs during the great depression, the benefits of president roosevelt’s new deal for americans, the 'new deal' influence on americans' life, the great depression and the new deal: an analysis, roosevelt's new deal and its success, success of the new deal in the united states, the new deal relief programs, the united states of america: a diverse and influential nation, the new deal: an analysis of its impact on american society, negative effects of the new deal, the alphabet agency analysis.

Great Depression

President Franklin D. Roosevelt

1933 - 1939

United States

Agricultural Adjustment Administration, National Recovery Administration, Public Works Administration, Public Works of Art Project

The New Deal was a series of programs and projects instituted during the Great Depression by President Franklin D. Roosevelt that aimed to restore prosperity to Americans.

Much of the New Deal legislation was enacted within the first three months of Roosevelt’s presidency. The main issue of the new president was to alleviate the suffering of the nation’s huge number of unemployed workers.

In 1935, Roosevelt launched a second, more aggressive series of federal programs, called the Second New Deal with three principal categories—relief, recovery, and reform. Recovery programs were intended to help stabilize and rebuild the economy.

From 1933 until 1941, President Roosevelt’s New Deal programs and policies provided support for farmers, the unemployed, youth and the elderly. In Roosevelt's 12 years in office, the economy had an 8.5% compound annual growth of GDP.

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New Deal - questions and answers.

American Coursework

• Explain the new features of the New Deal

There were many features to do the new deal.  Roosevelt had promised action and in the first hundred days of his administration, he kept up a very hectic pace of activity.  During the time of his election the economic crisis deepened and bank failures increased.  FDR’s first task was therefore to restore confidence in the banking system.  The most important acts of congress passed in the hundred days were those which tried to bring relief for the unemployed and recovery from the depression in both industry and agriculture.  Alphabet agencies were set up to put the new acts into practice.  The federal government at this point had now played a greater role in American life than ever before.

When FDR came into power America’s economy was on the brink of collapse.  Unemployment stood at 13 million and banks were closed in 38 states.  FDR’s first New Deal victory came about by saving the nation’s banks; he issued a decree closing the nation’s bank and called congress back into session.  The government would aid the banks in the best way they could, strong banks would reopen the next day and weaker banks closed with weaker ones helped by government loans.  By the end of 13 th  March customers had deposited more cash than they had withdrawn and the crisis was over.  Gradually other banks opened and failures ceased.      

The Alphabet agencies were set up to back up Roosevelt’s idea of Relief, Recover and Reform.  There were many different alphabet agencies to play a different part in fighting the depression. These alphabet agencies provided money, jobs, pension schemes and trade unions; these agencies helped the industry and agriculture.  NIRA was the government’s main weapon to fight against the industrial recovery.  The act set up the NRA whose job it was to draw up codes of fair competition.  The code also provided minimum wages, maximum hours and better working conditions. Joining the NRA was voluntary but firms were persuaded into signing up to these codes.  To revive the agriculture the AAA, RA and REA were set up.  FDR decided that the only way to raise farm prices was to cut down on production.  Farmers did this and received a subsidy raised by a tax on items like flour.  These acts also helped farmers keep land and find new land to farm on.  The social security act was also passed providing old age pensions and, unemployment benefit and disability pay.  This was based on an insurance scheme.  Both employers and employees paid.  This was a very important development since the government accepted responsibility to provide at least a minimum standard of welfare.  The Wagner act recognised the right of workers to organise into trade unions and to negotiate with their employers.  Companies which refused to recognise properly formed unions could be referred to the board.   This act was successful in increasing the power of unions in industries.

This is a preview of the whole essay

The Legislation was phase two which followed the hundred days.  This was a much slower pace of reform until 1935 which was when another series of major acts was passed by congress.  BY now it had become clear that the recovery form the depression was partial and slow. The new public work programmes for example were still not being absorbing a large enough percentage of the unemployed.  In addition there were still many areas of American life that FDR and the government wanted to reform.  The acts passed I n 1935 shifted the focus of the new deal.  Whereas the main aim of the measures passed in the hundred days had been to provide relief and recovery, the main aim of the legislation was to provide long lasting change.  The reforms expanded the New Deal into new areas of government activity.  

• Explain why Roosevelt introduced the New Deal

FDR introduced the New Deal So that the government could play a much greater part in American life to sort out the depression.  The New Deal, introduced by F D Roosevelt was to transform America's economy which had been shattered by the Wall Street Crash.  The Wall Street crash started when share prices were unrealistically high and when people began to sell their shares prices fell.  By the end of the day people were ruined and companies were forced to be shut down and the stock market completely collapsed.  This made economic problems worse and the Great depression affected America in many different ways.

Even before the Wall Street crash there were flaws in the economy and this only helped show these flaws which cost America.  There was a weakness in the economy and it was suffering as a result of falling demand and overproduction.  Too much income from the income from the prosperous was going into few hands and the republicans helped make the wealthy even wealthier.  There was a decline in demand which led to industries cutting back production so workers were sacked and the unemployed could not afford goods, and a cycle appeared which was badly affecting America.  The crash revealed badly structured companies and banks lacked proper cash reserves and lent too easily, by 1929 many banks went bankrupt and by 1933 4,000 banks had collapsed.

President Hoover blamed the depression on international economic problems.  Even though this was true American policies such as raising tariffs and demanding the repayment of war debts mad their position worse.  American banks also made loans to European countries and as a result of the crash these loans fell through and the Depression spread quickly affecting much of the world.

The main reason which the new deal was introduced was because President Hoover did very little to relieve the depression as he believed that it was not the governments role to help out in the depression as he thought the depression would just sort itself out.  As a result America was faced with Unemployment, Hunger and Homelessness.

• “The New Deal was not a complete success.”  Explain how far you agree with this statement

The new deal had its good points but it also had its bad points.  Even though in 1932 FDR won the elections, Hoover still received 15.7 million votes for his “hands off” approach in conquering the depression.  This was a large minority and wealthy businessmen joined conservative politicians in attacking the new deal’s relief and welfare measures were the first steps towards communism and undermined traditional American values such as self-reliance.  Huey Long also at first supported the new deal but then changed his mind and announced a nationwide “share our wealth” movement.  Father Coughlin also went against the deal as he thought it would be better to have a monetary system and Dr Townsend disagreed with it as he saw that the new deal did not support the elderly and there were no pensions in 20 states.  The new deal also received opposition from the Supreme Court, it claimed that a number of the new deal acts were unconstitutional; the federal government was responsible only for national matters which affected all the states.  Since the NIRA and AAA did not affect the whole of America it was seen as unconstitutional.  The fight against the Supreme Court damaged the new deal and the government.  One of the main aims of the new deal was to bring about economic recovery and the new deal was not completely successful in achieving this.  The number of unemployed people did not fall below 10% of the workforce before the USA joined the war.  The new deal did help unemployment recover from the state the depression put USA in but it did not fall enough, and it was only the approach of war and the need for the production of war materials that led to full employment.  The new deal also did not wipe out poverty completely.  The agencies provided relief which was food, shelter, minimum wage and the standard of living was improved.  However not enough funds were there to provide for these programmes to cure the problem of poverty.  The new deal helped to improve workers rights in America as unions brought better working conditions and a change in attitude towards work improved for the employees.  Even though this was done employers were still arguing with the unions and the relationship between workers and employers still remained difficult.  Strikes also still occurred.  The new deal gained a large amount of black votes because of his relief agencies.  But some agencies discriminated against blacks e.g. AAA and NRA.  Black workers were removed form jobs and black farmers lost land.  FDR never actually said he wanted “equal rights” for blacks  as he would have lost many votes from white people.  However FDR may have actually wanted this as he supported the anti-lynching Bill so the new deal helped this with the black people actually being appointed to posts in the new deal agencies.  The new deal got the chance for women to promote “women’s rights”.  Women made up nearly 25% of the workforce and many suffered from the effects of the depression.  Eleanor Roosevelt and others helped set up public works programmes for women and in the 1930s the first women to become a member of the presidents cabinet was Frances Perkins, and women could be appointed to being administrators in the alphabet agencies.

The new deal did help America out of the depression however it did produce more problems to American life that was needed.

Edward Clive

11CBG        

Document Details

• Word Count 1593
• Page Count 4
• Subject History

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