#609 Great Depression: The New Deal

President Franklin Roosevelt campaigns for a "New Deal."

Mural from Cincinnati's Union Terminal, 1933.

Preparation:

• Assignment #609.

Journal

How does the state help people during an economic crisis? What sort of programs or assistance comes to mind? Write a short 2-3 minute response in your journal.
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The New Deal's "Three Rs"

In his campaign for president in 1932, Franklin Roosevelt promised a “New Deal” for Americans struggling with the Great Depression. President Roosevelt, aided by majorities in Congress, put the full weight of the federal government behind ending the economic crisis. Historians divide New Deal legislation into three categories:

• Relief – to provide Americans with immediate assistance to help them with basic necessities of life, including food, direct monetary payments and employment
• Recovery – to promote growth in the U.S. economy
• Reform – to ensure that economic depression does not occur again

Stations activity

With a partner, visit at least four stations around the classroom that introduce Roosevelt’s New Deal policies. Chart key information about these policies using your graphic organizer.

Discussion

Based on your reading of Hoover’s 1932 speech, do you think he would have changed his mind about the New Deal after seeing the policies Roosevelt ultimately put in place? Why or why not?

What is Hoover’s vision of an “American System”? How is it similar or different from the priorities and values reflected in the New Deal programs?

Ultimately, how do Roosevelt and Hoover articulate competing visions of liberty in these documents? Do you see any significant similarities along with these differences? Which of the two approaches do you view as more compelling in the context of the Great Depression? What about today?

Homework: #610.