FDR and the First New Deal
- Was the New Deal really a “new deal” for the American people?
- Was the New Deal a Fair Deal for the American people
1932 Election
- Democratic candidate Franklin Delano Roosevelt wins the 1932 election.
- Democrats also take control of the US Senate
Inauguration Day
Hoover believed the promise of a “New Deal” was ” socialist and fascist ””
The New Deal
- FDR promised the American people “A New Deal”
- What did he mean by “a new deal”
- Was it really “a new deal” for the American people
FDR’s New Deal
| Relief | Recovery | Reform |
|---|---|---|
| Focused on providing relief to those suffering from unemployment and homelessness . Attempted to put as many Americans back to work ASAP | Focused on agricultural and industrial recovery . Attempted to stimulate the economy by increasing production and supporting workers. | Focused on reforming the financial system of the USA |
Political Cartoon Interpretation:
Pragmatism and Brain Trust
- FDR was known for his “can do” attitude.
- he believed in the value of ideas ( pragmatism) - there was no idea he wouldn’t try.
- If the idea worked, AWESOME…if not, put it in the “tried it column” and move on, but keep trying!
- Taking action - the world is changing so actions need to change too.
- Created the Brain trust
- Group of professionals organized to advise the president.
- Professors of psychology, economists, etc.
The Bank Holiday
- 2 days after taking office, FDR declared a bank holiday & closed all banks to prevent further withdrawals.
- Emergency banking relief act (3/1933): Banks would be inspected, only financially sound banks would reopen.
- Renewed confidence in banks
Alphabet Agencies
FDRs new deal agencies were known by their Acronyms.
Fireside Chats
- Weekly radio addresses made by FDR addressing public concerns, in plain English, about the New Deal
- FDR seemed to personally connect with his audience
- 1st Chat: Explained banking system to nation, next day people began to deposit their money back in banks
Interpret the Political Cartoon:
Left political cartoon: The sentiment is that congress’s spending was out of control and it was at a time in which the American Taxpayer did not have the money to spare for crazy government spending, and they did not feel heard when they complained.
Right political cartoon: FDR is becoming more powerful than is reasonable because congress just keeps giving him more and more abilities.
Based on the information learned in today’s lesson, how would you respond to this question?
Why do you think some Americans cast their vote for FDR?