THE NEW DEAL

Focus Question

“The country needs and . . . demands, bold, persistent experimentation. It is common sense to take a method and try it. If it fails, admit it frankly and try another. But above all, try something.” -- FDR, 1932

Based on this comment, how might an FDR Administration address the Great Depression?

Objectives

After today’s lesson, you will: Describe the impact of the election of

1932 Examine the candidacy of Franklin D.

Roosevelt in 1932 Outline qualities of FDR’s speaking

which appealed to the public.

The Election of 1932 Watershed election Democratic victory led to Democratic control

Captured the White HouseSwept control of both houses of CongressControlled both houses for 56 of the next 62

years Developed a large Democratic coalition

Disillusionment with Hoover Nation in an economic catastrophe

Unemployment rate at 25%Thousands left homelessThousands of banks failed

Hoover seen as doing too little, too late

America turns to FDR Charismatic politician Exceptionally personable

Smooth, confident speaking

voiceUnderstood how to use radioDemonstrated daring

Faced personal adversity

New style to the White House Brought policies to the

publicFireside chats

Practiced pragmatismDemonstrate bold

approaches to problems

Drew the United States into a New Deal where the government would work to help assist the population in times of trouble

Proposed a “New Deal” FDR’s legislative program Not outlined during the campaign Developed into a robust, inclusive, and

transformative program

“The First Hundred Days” FDR set a rapid pace

Sworn in to office March 4, 1933Called Congress into special sessionClosed the nation’s banks on March 6Emergency Banking Relief Act, March 9

The Alphabet Soup New Deal built on the Three R’s

RecoveryReliefReform

The Three R’s

The New Deal developed into a three-part plan

Recovery: Designs to end the Depression(provide jobs and increase demand)

Relief: Provide temporary assistance to the people (money and food)

Reform: Correct the abuses in the system(Prevent future depressions)

New Deal Coalition FDR’s politics and policies forged a winning

coalitionSouthern conservativeLabor UnionsUrban machinesLiberalsAfrican-Americans