success of the new deal essay

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.

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• Was the New Deal a Success?

To answer the question, ‘was the New Deal a success?’ we first have to define ‘success’. For Franklin D Roosevelt (FDR) in 1933, success meant working towards relief and recovery.

However, over time the idea of success evolved. By 1936 many hoped that the New Deal could provide solutions to a huge range of social, political and economic problems. With such high expectations, the New Deal was destined to be the subject of both praise and criticism.

FDR’s First Hundred Days were a success in many ways. As Roosevelt said in 1933: “All we have to fear is fear itself.”

Through his ‘fireside chats’ he managed to restore confidence in the banks - a vital element of recovery. Roosevelt took on the role of commander in chief during wartime by working quickly and confidently. On his first night in office he directed Treasurer William Woodin to draft an emergency banking bill. He then halted transactions in gold and proclaimed a national bank holiday. This fast and assertive action was welcomed by the public and proved Roosevelt’s success as a leader.

The New Deal was also effective in offering relief to the poor. Relief schemes, such as the CWA and WPA, provided jobs and support for millions of Americans.

However, the New Deal was less successful in terms of recovery. The figures below show the slow America’s slow recovery.

America's Gross National Product 1928 to 1939:

Amount of consumer goods brought 1928 to 1939:, private investment in industry:.

These figures show that FDR was not able to return the American economy to 1929 levels. However, considering the brevity of the depression this would have been virtually impossible anyway. Moreover, the figures do show a marked improvement in the economy in 1939, compared to 1933.

The New Deal is often criticised for not actually ending the Great Depression . Recovery was painfully slow and throughout the decade unemployment remained high.

Number Unemployed in America:

Those who criticise the New Deal claim that it never laid the foundations to end unemployment. Although “Alphabet” Agencies, such as the Civilian Corps, put many Americans to work, they did not offer a long-term solution. In 1938 unemployment increased again to over 10 million. It only began to fall steeply again in 1939 when the US began to build up its armaments in case of war.

Economists who attacked the New Deal claimed that all the acts introduced by the New Deal were short-term policies and that there was no long term planning for America's future.

But despite its economic weaknesses, the New Deal successfully restored the confidence of the American people. Through the New Deal, Roosevelt changed the role of government forever.

See also: USA 1919

MLA Citation/Reference

"Was the New Deal a Success?". HistoryLearning.com. 2024. Web.

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Schoolshistory.org.uk

History resources, stories and news. Author: Dan Moorhouse

The New Deal: Was it a success?

How successful was the new deal.

The New Deal changed many aspects of government, the economy and the relationship between Industry and the state. The policies within the New Deal were aimed at tackling the Great Depression, by reducing unemployment and raising investment in industry and the economy. It’s success, or otherwise, can be measured against a variety of criteria. FDR’s New Deal has drawn both criticism and praise, making an evaluation of the policies quite demanding.

There has been much debate about whether the New Deal was a success. At the time Roosevelt’s policies attracted a lot of opposition and criticism.The Republicans thought the New Deal was too costly and a waste of tax payers money. Huey Long and his supporters thought the New Deal did not do enough for the poor and wanted higher taxes on the rich and a massive redistribution of wealth. Father Coughlin opposed the New Deal and wanted the USA to adopt a fascist type government. Some people opposed the New Deal because they believed it threatened the Constitution. The Republican dominated Supreme Court declared parts of the New Deal (AAA and NIRA) unconstitutional. Business leaders opposed government interference and the new rights given to workers and unions. Black Americans complained that the New Deal did not do enough to end discrimination. There were 15 million unemployed when Roosevelt became President in 1932, by 1939 there were still around 10 million. Many historians believe this shows that the New Deal did not end the depression. However, it gave people confidence and hope that things could get better.

• The Emergency Banking Act made the financial system more open and honest and helped restore confidence.

• Agencies such as the Home Owners Loan Corporation provided immediate help for people who were facing homelessness.

• The Agricultural Adjustment Act reduced production in order to end ‘overproduction’, increased prices and provided subsidies to farmers. After it was declared illegal by the Supreme Court it was replaced by the Soil Conservation Act which gave subsidies and trained farmers in soil conservation, new farming methods and marketing.

• The Tennessee Valley crossed several states and the region’s problems were too big for any one state to deal with. The TVA built dams to stop the flooding in winter and the droughts in the summer. The cheap hydroelectricity these dams produced attracted new industries to the area, improved transport and helped farmers. These people could then use their new found prosperity to buy the electrical goods mass produced in the cities this helping to reverse the Spiral of Depression by kick starting the Cycle of Prosperity.

Norris Dam, built as part of the TVA.

• A national welfare system was established to provide social security (unemployment benefit) and pensions.

• Industry was helped by the National Recovery Administration through the ‘Blue Eagle scheme’. Trade Union power increased and workers were given improved rights and minimum wages were introduced.

• Without the New Deal unemployment would have been worse. It provided temporary work for millions of unemployed. The public works, roads, dams, schools, airports and ports, helped the USA become a Superpower during the Second World War.

• The New Deal had faults and failures but it avoided helped to preserve freedom and democracy during the depression. Roosevelt was elected President three times and this demonstrated huge popular support for the new Deal

• When the USA went to war in 1942, conscription greatly reduced unemployment. The military forces of America and her allies provided massive orders for American businesses. By 1944 unemployment was replaced by labour shortages and large numbers of women had to enter the workforce.

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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.

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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The Success of the New Deal

• ❖ Farmers were given $4 billion in direct relief and farm income had nearly doubled by 1939.
• ❖ However, farm income didn't return to 1920s levels and many farmers owed the government money through mortgages and loans.
• ❖ Unemployment never reached the same high levels of 1933 after Roosevelt became president.
• ❖ However, it didn't return to its 1929 levels until the Second World War broke out.
• ❖ It had fallen significantly by 1937.
• ❖ When New Deal spending was cut in 1938, unemployment rose again.
• ❖ The outbreak of the Second World War in 1939, and America's entry to the conflict in 1941, was what finally solved unemployment , as it provided jobs in the army and in the manufacture of war goods.
• ❖ The home market didn't recover, as many Americans continued to live in poverty . This was especially true of rural areas, where prices didn't recover until the Second World War .
• ❖ Competition and tariffs from other countries limited US overseas sales. Many countries were also suffering from the effects of the Depression, and couldn't buy many goods.
• ❖ Modern methods of production in agriculture and industry meant that fewer workers were needed.
• ❖ The global business cycle meant that the whole world fell into a recession in 1937 and 1938. The actions of one country could not make a difference to this.
• ❖ In some industries , such as agriculture , it was necessary to reduce jobs in order to make farming more efficient. There were therefore some self-inflicted job-losses in America.
• ❖ The New Deal succeeded in reform by making banks safer, regulating the treatment of workers, introducing social security and improving living conditions. However, it didn't really close the gap between rich and poor.
• ❖ Although the New Deal did help to reduce unemployment , the fact it rose again when spending was cut showed the economy still hadn't recovered. Unemployment didn't stop being a problem until the Second World War .
• ❖ The federal government provided billions of dollars of short-term relief through the New Deal . Roosevelt's ongoing popularity showed how much this was appreciated by ordinary people, but it didn't solve all the problems of poverty.
• ❖ Trade union membership grew to more than seven million.
• ❖ More strikes resulted in improved conditions for workers.
• ❖ Pay and working conditions improved overall.
• ❖ Some employers disliked the Wagner Act , and used violence against strikers.

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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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New Deal Effects on America Essay

The New Deal was set up by the administration of Franklin Roosevelt. Several goals were attached to this deal. While numerous benefits have accrued to this deal, still criticism has been eminent. The New Deal comprised of several economic programs that were to be implemented back to back and taking place in the first term of the 32 nd president of the USA (Edsforth 1). During the First World War, many agencies had to be disintegrated with very few programs being put in place. According to the College of Staten Island (86), there were notable migrations in the inner cities because of the great depression and the New Deal was mean to alleviate this.

Majorly the programs were being set up to counter the great depression that had occurred in the 1930s. According to Edsforth (2), there was a great desire to alleviate soaring unemployment levels, resuscitating the economy back to upbeat levels and a total makeover of the financial system to ensure that there would be no repeat of the depression. One of the major consequences of the New deal was that it led to new political realignments causing the Democratic Party to be most popular. According to the College of Staten Island (89), there was a clash of various movements that is those that were for and those that were against the new deal. Further, the author deeply blames the ramifications of the war as those having hurt the country.

The new deal programs that were implemented are still of the essence in the current state of America. The national pension system funded by taxes that are charged on employers and employees is very crucial in current times. They do not only pay out retirement benefits to those persons in old age but also other categories of persons like those with disabilities. In the New Deal, the president undertook a few steps in terms of social security by extending it to another 10 million people with employment compensation covering another 4 million people (The College of Staten Island 88). Secondly, the oversight of labor practices represents a second program that was implemented in the new deal that still has immense effects in current America. It was created by the Wagner Act. Moreover, the emergency banking Act represents another of such Acts. People’s deposits that were made in the banking institutions were secured because of any panics that would possibly arise in the market. Due to this, public confidence was restored in not only the banking system but also in the investment sector of the country.

The national industrial recovery Act of 1933 was segmented into three. The first segmentation was that of public works administration; which was vital in managing projects of national interest. Equally, the national recovery administration helped to establish some codes that were to govern employment aspects like hours worked and unfair competition. This helped to increase productivity in the industries. Trade unions under this Act were given the power to fight for the rights of their members and rightly represent them in areas where they needed. The declaration of this Act as being unconstitutional in 1935 led to the loss of the myriad benefits previously enjoyed. However, according to the Staten College of Island (87), the new deal was perceived as one that had brought social order among the people; increasing purchasing power and stabilizing labor relations.

The agricultural adjustment Act of 1933 is yet another Act that constituted the New deal. It however is not mentioned as a successful one since it led to the doubling of farm prices at a certain point in the course of its implementation. The Act called for payment of farmers to limit the products that they were to yield. This is seen as one of the most ineffective acts under the New deal. The Tennessee Valley Adjustment Act of 1933 endeavored to greatly develop Tennessee agriculturally. This program was a success. Regeneration of the valley was eminent with huge success.

The National Labor Relations Act set up by the new deal endeavored to impress upon the employers to deal directly with the Labor Unions. Collective bargaining was also facilitated as employers could form their unions. Bosses who did not want to abide by the established regulations. This program was a success since membership to the unions kept growing day by day. Equally the relations between employers and employees were smoothened. The congress of industrial relations was a replacement for this Act in 1935.

Another crucial Act that was the pillar to the Deal was set up in 1935 was the Social Security Act. This formed the pension fund that was to pay the retirement benefits of employees. Despite opposition from Republicans, there have been a significant number of persons covered under this Act. There was the soil conservation Act set up in 1936 where farmers were compensated for leaving the land fallow or by planting nitrogen-fixing crops. There was also intensified research in areas of soil conservation which led to better management of soil. However, crop yields were affected negatively in some periods.

Another Act set up under the new Deal that has immensely improved lives was the Fair Labor Standards Act that sought to reduce the number of hours that one was to work. The minimum wage level was also raised. Though effective, the inflation level rose due to this minimum wage implementation. Over 30 million people got protection from this program.

Finally, the agricultural adjustment Act was aimed at maintaining a minimum income for the farmers. This Act allowed farmers to receive subsidies for their production processes. Several agencies were established so that the Deal may be implemented in its fullness. Among these were the Farm credit administration, and Reconstruction Finance Corporation.

In conclusion, the New Deal has come under intense criticism. Some of the Acts in the Deal were considered to be retrospective. Most economists inclusive of those who initially supported the New Deal have been of the opinion that the policies put in place were very erroneous. Some still argue that the New Deal only worked to lengthen the depression. Protests rocked the country as one of the effects of the new deal was just beginning to be felt all across all the people divides (The College of Staten Island 94). On overall terms though, the deal helped, to some extent, pull the American economy out of the great depression. Further, most of the Acts are either still in use currently or were modified a little to fit the current needs of the United States and are now in use.

Works cited

Edsforth, Ronald. The New Deal: America’s Response to the Great Depression . Massachusetts: Blackwell Publishers, 2000. Print.

The College of Staten Island. These United States” COR100 United States Issues, Ideas, and Institutions. New York: The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc., 2007. Print.

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Success of the New Deal

The Great Depression of the 1930s took the world by storm, especially in the United States, where people panicked over the sudden collapse of Wall Street, revealing the perceived success of the New Deal.

Introduction : Success of the New Deal

Table of Contents

The Great Depression of the 1930s took the world by storm, especially in the United States, where people panicked over the sudden collapse of Wall Street, revealing the perceived success of the New Deal. The phenomena of overproduction and low consumption spread like wildfire. The Great Depression started with the market crash in the summer of 1929 and extended to other aspects of the economy. Investors fled Wall Street, leading to bankruptcies within a day, forcing foreclosures and repossessions. This resulted in more than 4 million people becoming jobless in the United States alone, and adherence to the gold standard for currency exchange further exacerbated the crisis in Europe.

Incumbent President Herbert Hoover attempted to boost public confidence with assurances, but all efforts ended in smoke. Industries came to a halt, and farmers found themselves amidst falling prices and rotting crops in the fields. Despite having money, people had nothing to eat. Banks were forced to liquidate loans to supplement the cash that people were withdrawing en masse (Berten 2001). The administration in Washington tried to support the banks, but this strategy also failed.

The three addresses of Roosevelt show that he tried to address the banking system first to win public confidence. The documentary “The River” demonstrates that 20 years of cultivation made the land infertile in the valley, leading to widespread loss of fertile land. Additionally, “In Dubious Battle” by Steinbeck shows some support for the strategies adopted by the Roosevelt administration in Washington, pointing to the desperate struggle waged against the Great Depression. John Steinbeck does not clearly support the strikers despite low wages and the repressive tactics of the growers.

These documents show that the New Deal, comprising relief, recovery, and reform, won support not only from John Steinbeck but also from Pare Lorenz, indicating that the steps taken by the administration were shown to have succeeded to some extent.

First Step of Success of the New Deal

The first step taken by the administration was relief, designed for the jobless and the poor who suffered the most during the Great Depression. This was because they lacked money and had no jobs to support their families. President Roosevelt highlighted this need in his second address on May 7, 1937, stating, “Our next step in seeking immediate relief is a grant of half a billion dollars to help the states, counties, and municipalities in their duty to care for those who need direct and immediate relief,” emphasizing his strategy of providing relief (Roosevelt).

This initiative led to the introduction of the legislation known as “The Farm Relief Bill.” According to the president, “measures will … be proposed which will attempt to give to the industrial workers of the country a fair wage system,” aimed at providing a fair system for the poor and needy to earn a livelihood. In “The River,” Pare Lorenzo described the situation of the poor as “Aimless, footloose, and impoverished, / Unable to eat even from the land because their cash crop is their only livelihood,” which lost its value due to a sudden downturn in prices (Lorenz).

Although John Steinbeck did not explicitly state in the novel that he supported the New Deal, some of his words and descriptions suggest his opposition to the actions of the apple pickers. Critic Michael Szalay, in his book “New Deal Modernism: American Literature and the Invention of the Welfare State,” asserts that “Steinbeck was every bit the government man, meeting twice with Roosevelt in the thirties” (71). Szalay also notes that Steinbeck and Pare Lorenz, a cultural official of the New Deal, used to meet, indicating their shared support for relief efforts. Therefore, both of them were likely to support relief, even if not completely endorsing upheaval. When Jim asks about wages, Mac tells him, “Raising wages isn’t all we’re after” (65), and their eventual defeat suggests that Steinbeck does not endorse this upheaval. Therefore, it is evident that he is inclined to support relief for the poor, even if it falls short of complete upheaval.

Recovery, and Success of the New Deal

Regarding recovery, after Herbert Hoover’s departure, Roosevelt initiated the establishment of the National Recovery Administration (NRA). This move aimed to increase government spending and provide relief to the public by ending deflation and suspending the gold standard to eliminate “cut-throat competition” (Roosevelt). In his third address on July 24, 1933, President Roosevelt outlined the “fundamentals of this planning for national recovery,” elaborating on the Industrial Recovery Act. He emphasized that “reasonable wages — and require the same hours — reasonable hours” were at the heart of this act, intended to revive the industry after a four-year downturn (Roosevelt).

Lorenz expressed similar support for this aspect of recovery in the New Deal. He explicitly stated that the Farm Security Administration had come to the rescue of the agricultural community, emphasizing that “you cannot plan for water and land unless you plan for people.” Lorenz further noted that the FSA had “lent thousands of dollars to farmers / in the Valley” who were affected by the depression and had lost everything (Lorenz). This demonstrates his clear endorsement of the New Deal’s efforts.

Even John Steinbeck, as Michael Szalay pointed out, stated in a letter, “I don’t like communists,” after the publication of the novel “In Dubious Battle” (71). This suggests that Steinbeck supported the New Deal, including its recovery aspects and assistance for landowners. This support is evident in the novel, where Anderson is compelled to evict the strikers to avoid facing consequences. This implies that the recovery part of the New Deal was successful.

It is possible that the strike at farms served as a means of cutting production, allowing farmers to pursue recovery through increased prices. This strategy could ultimately contribute to raising the standard of living.

Reforms, and Success of the New Deal

The third aspect of the New Deal involved reforms in various sectors, encompassing banking, industry, and agriculture. In his first address on March 12, 1933, President Roosevelt acknowledged that “some of our bankers had shown themselves either incompetent or dishonest,” prompting the legal authorization to “develop a program of rehabilitation of our banking facilities.” In his second address, he emphasized the need for reforms across all sectors, including agriculture and industry. This reform agenda also extended to the employment market, leading to the launch of the Civilian Conservation Corps program. The Farm Relief Bill and Railroad Bill aimed at achieving similar goals, involving “a general reduction of armaments,” cutting trade barriers, stabilizing currency, and establishing good relations (Roosevelt).

The implementation of these reforms is evident in “The River,” where Lorenz describes the construction of a great dam as a “barrier to hold water” during flood times and to provide water when needed. This illustrates the practical application of reforms in the agricultural sector, with additional barriers constructed on the river (Lorenz).

While it is not explicitly mentioned in “In Dubious Battle,” the final scene, where the sheriff arrives to disperse the mob at the orchard, reinforces Steinbeck’s support for the reforming authority. When the sheriff addresses the crowd, stating, “If there’s anyone in authority I want to see him,” and no one comes forward, Steinbeck appears to distance himself from supporting the mob and the strikers. Instead, he advocates for peaceful strikes and urges avoiding making a mess of things (Steinbeck 258). This suggests that Steinbeck supports the idea of reform through established authorities, such as the sheriff and the administration.

Conclusion : Success of the New Deal

In short, all three documents strongly support the New Deal actions and legislative acts that facilitated the recovery of economic sectors. The measures undertaken included relief, recovery, and reform acts, which in turn led to various other measures, acts, and legal actions. President Roosevelt’s addresses make it evident that he initially prioritized relief, followed by the recovery and reforms of the banking sector, involving government intervention. Subsequently, attention was directed towards transportation, agriculture, and railways.

Government intervention was not confined to relief and recovery operations but extended to direct involvement through various legal acts legislated by Congress and enforced by the administration. The president emphasized in his first address the enforcement of regulations to allow banks to “continue their functions to take care of the distribution of food,” highlighting the correction of the banking sector as a primary focus of the New Deal. Relief work is emphasized in the second and third addresses, where the president called for raising a quarter of a million to engage in forestry and flood prevention work. This is also evident in “The River,” where dams and barriers were constructed on the river. The New Deal persisted until 1934, at which point the economy showed signs of recovery. This marked the conclusion of that era, after which the administration introduced the second New Deal to further stimulate growth. Consequently, these documents illustrate the success of the New Deal in implementing relief, recovery, and reform programs, laws, and regulations.

Works Cited: Success of the New Deal

• Berten, Pierre. The Great Depression: 1929-1939 . Doubleday Canada, Limited. 2001. Print.
• Lorentz, Pare. “The River 1937.”YouTube. YouTube, LLC. 20 July 2008. Web. 26 March 20123.
• Michael Szalay. New Deal Modernism: American Literature and the Invention of the Welfare State. Duke University Press. 2000. Print. 71-151.
• Roosevelt, Franklin D. “On the Bank Crisis.” Fireside Chat by Franklin D. Roosevelt . n. d. Web. 25 March 2023.
• ————————–. “Outlining the New Deal Program.” Fireside Chat by Franklin D. Roosevelt. n. d. Web. 25 March 2023.
• ————————–. ” On the Purposes and Foundations of the Recovery Program .” Fireside Chat by Franklin D. Roosevelt. n. d. Web. 25 March 2023.
• Steinbeck, John. In Dubious Battle. Penguin Classics. New York. 2001. Print.

Relevant Questions About Success of the New Deal

• To what extent did the successes of the New Deal effectively address the economic challenges of the Great Depression?
• How did the successes of the New Deal contribute to long-term structural changes in the U.S. economy?
• What criticisms and controversies surround the successes of the New Deal’s effectiveness, and how do historians evaluate its success in hindsight?

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Rene Lacad hasn’t walked the traditional road to entrepreneurial success. Born to a single mother who migrated to the United States from the Philippines, he grew up poor and struggled with school throughout his childhood. He graduated high school with a low GPA and briefly attended a small community college before dropping out. With no plan to speak of, Lacad worked several minimum wage jobs until he found something he was passionate about—social media and internet marketing.

Lacad’s capabilities in the online world eventually led to the development of an advertising agency that quickly scaled to seven figures at the age of 24. His unfiltered content and transparency in his life and business made his videos go viral. However, the pressure would eventually lead him to spiral.

As Lacad found tremendous success, it was more than he could handle, he spent exorbitant amounts of money on parties, luxury vacations, exotic cars, and jewelry. He describes the problem as a “celebrity phase,” during which he spent money as fast as he was making it. Fortunately, Lacad grounded himself and escaped the downward spending spiral. His lifestyle content continues to catch traction on social media, and he has reached over 500 million people through his videos, which he describes as a “laid-back, unprofessional approach.”

Now 28, Rene Lacad has built several companies, including Unlimitter. He is also the founder of Lacadvertisement, an advertising agency that’s partnered with over 30+ businesses and generated substantial online revenue. His new company, SMM Deal Finder , is AI-powered software that lets users find and analyze social media marketing deals nationwide.

SMM Deal Finder offers “unlimited deals at your fingertips.” Using tools such as AI NicheFinder, AI Deal Explorer, and AI Sales Script Generator, SMM Deal Finder changes how agencies find potential clients. By using proprietary AI lead scoring, the software can provide thousands of ready-to-go deals, high-quality leads, and compelling insights and tools to close a deal.

In speaking about his success, Lacad says that anything is possible with the right mindset. He also claims that the internet is the future of making money but that true wealth is more than just financial—it’s mental, physical, and spiritual. His success shows in the numbers he’d generated, especially across social media, and in features in publications such as Forbes, Influencive, and Yahoo.com. Lacad describes that he was able to turn an “unfavorable childhood” into a “rags and riches story,” 

Lacad looks forward to building his software company to an eight-figure exit in the next few years. He also looks forward to the birth of his daughter and starting a family. Above all, he wants to build the largest personal brand possible to reach as many people as possible. 

Lacad’s businesses have grown to over a dozen employees and contractors, and he’s recently started an education company to help teach the skills he’s learned to other aspiring entrepreneurs. His main goal, in the end, is assisting people to achieve complete financial freedom and break free of the 9-to-5 work cycle that so many people endure.

Home — Essay Samples — History — The New Deal — The New Deal Relief Programs

The New Deal Relief Programs

• Categories: Minimum Wage The New Deal

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Words: 660 |

Published: Jan 30, 2024

Words: 660 | Page: 1 | 4 min read

Table of contents

Relief programs, recovery initiatives, reform measures, evaluation of the new deal's successes, criticisms and limitations of the new deal.

• "New Deal," The Eleanor Roosevelt Papers Project, accessed November 10, 2021, https://www2.gwu.edu/~erpapers/teachinger/glossary/new-deal.cfm.
• "Emergency Banking Relief Act: Definition and Facts," Encyclopedia Britannica, accessed November 10, 2021, https://www.britannica.com/event/Emergency-Banking-Relief-Act.
• "Tennessee Valley Authority," History.com, accessed November 10, 2021, https://www.history.com/topics/great-depression/tennessee-valley-authority.

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Guest Essay

Don’t Overlook the Power of the Civil Cases Against Donald Trump

By David Lat and Zachary B. Shemtob

Mr. Lat writes about the legal profession. Mr. Shemtob is a lawyer.

For months now, the country has been riveted by the four criminal cases against Donald Trump: the New York state case involving hush-money payments to an adult film star, the federal case involving classified documents, the Georgia election-interference case and the federal election-interference case. But some have been postponed or had important deadlines delayed. The only case with a realistic shot of producing a verdict before the election, the New York case, involves relatively minor charges of falsifying business records that are unlikely to result in any significant prison time . None of the other three are likely to be resolved before November.

It’s only the civil courts that have rendered judgments on Mr. Trump. In the first two months of 2024, Mr. Trump was hit with more than half a billion dollars in judgments in civil cases — around $450 million in the civil fraud case brought by the New York attorney general, Letitia James, and $83.3 million in the defamation case brought by the writer E. Jean Carroll.

For Trump opponents who want to see him behind bars, even a half-billion-dollar hit to his wallet might not carry the same satisfaction. But if, as Jonathan Mahler suggested in 2020, “visions of Donald Trump in an orange jumpsuit” turn out to be “more fantasy than reality,” civil justice has already shown itself to be a valuable tool for keeping him in check — and it may ultimately prove more successful in the long run at reining him in.

The legal system is not a monolith but a collection of different, interrelated systems. Although not as heralded as the criminal cases against Mr. Trump, civil suits have proved effective in imposing some measure of accountability on him, in situations where criminal prosecution might be too delayed, divisive or damaging to the law.

To understand why the civil system has been so successful against Mr. Trump, it’s important to understand some differences between civil and criminal justice. Civil actions have a lower standard of proof than criminal ones. In the civil fraud case, Justice Arthur Engoron applied a “ preponderance of the evidence ” standard, which required the attorney general to prove that it was more likely than not that Mr. Trump committed fraud. (Criminal cases require a jury or judge to decide beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed a crime, a far higher standard.) As a result, it is much easier for those suing Mr. Trump in civil court to obtain favorable judgments.

These judgments can help — and already are helping — curb Mr. Trump’s behavior. Since Justice Engoron’s judgment in the civil fraud case, the monitor assigned to watch over the Trump Organization, the former federal judge Barbara Jones, has already identified deficiencies in the company’s financial reporting. After the second jury verdict in Ms. Carroll’s favor, Mr. Trump did not immediately return to attacking her, as he did in the past. (He remained relatively silent about her for several weeks before lashing out again in March.)

Returning to the White House will not insulate Mr. Trump from the consequences of civil litigation. As president, he could direct his attorney general to dismiss federal criminal charges against him or even attempt to pardon himself if convicted. He cannot do either with civil cases, which can proceed even against presidents. (In Clinton v. Jones , the Supreme Court held that a sitting president has no immunity from civil litigation for acts done before taking office and unrelated to the office. And as recently as December, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit made clear that even if the challenged acts took place during his presidency, when the president “acts in an unofficial, private capacity, he is subject to civil suits like any private citizen.”)

It may also be difficult for Mr. Trump to avoid the most serious penalties in a civil case. To appeal both recent civil judgments, Mr. Trump must come up with hundreds of millions of dollars in cash or secure a bond from an outside company. Although he managed to post a $91.6 million bond in the Carroll case, he initially encountered what his lawyers described as “ insurmountable difficulties ” in securing the half-billion-dollar bond he was originally ordered to post in the civil fraud case. An appeals court order last week cut that bond to $175 million — but if Mr. Trump cannot post this bond, Ms. James can start enforcing her judgment by seizing his beloved real estate or freezing his bank accounts. And even though it appears that he will be able to post the reduced bond, the damage done to his cash position and liquidity poses a significant threat to and limitation on his business operations.

Furthermore, through civil litigation, we could one day learn more about the inner workings of the Trump empire. Civil cases allow for broader discovery than criminal cases do. Ms. James, for instance, was able to investigate Mr. Trump’s businesses for almost three years before filing suit. And in the Carroll cases, Mr. Trump had to sit for depositions — an experience he seemed not to enjoy, according to Ms. Carroll’s attorney. There is no equivalent pretrial process in the criminal context, where defendants enjoy greater protections — most notably, the Fifth Amendment privilege against self-incrimination.

Finally, civil cases generally have fewer externalities or unintended consequences. There are typically not as many constitutional issues to navigate and less risk of the prosecution appearing political. As a result, civil cases may be less divisive for the nation. Considering the extreme political polarization in the United States right now, which the presidential election will probably only exacerbate, this advantage should not be underestimated.

David Lat ( @DavidLat ), a former federal law clerk and prosecutor, writes Original Jurisdiction , a newsletter about law and the legal profession. Zachary B. Shemtob is a former federal law clerk and practicing lawyer.

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

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An earlier version of this article misstated Arthur Engoron’s title. He is a justice on the New York State Supreme Court, not a judge.

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