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FDR and the New Deal. Chapter 18. Roosevelt Takes Charge. Since FDR had come from a family that faced little economic hardship, it was interesting that the American people chose him to bring them out of the Depression.
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FDR and the New Deal Chapter 18
Roosevelt Takes Charge • Since FDR had come from a family that faced little economic hardship, it was interesting that the American people chose him to bring them out of the Depression. • When Roosevelt took over the presidency, he did not have a clear plan as to how to how he wanted to end the Depression. • He simply knew that he wanted the federal government to play an active role in promoting relief and recovery, a “New Deal” for the people.
Roosevelt’s Cabinet • To include as many opinions on the New Deal as possible, Roosevelt sought the advice of as many people as possible. • In his Cabinet, FDR chose a group of professionals and academics who were nicknamed the ‘brain trust’. • Roosevelt nominated both Republicans and Democrats, including the first woman Cabinet member– Frances Perkins.
First 100 Days • The first 100 days of FDR’s presidency were some of busiest in presidential history. During this time, he passed 15 bills through Congress. • This legislation collectively became known as The First New Deal. • The programs of the First New Deal focused on three broad goals: relief, recovery and reform. • Relief provide immediate relief for those suffering from the Depression. • Recovery help the economy recover for the long haul. • Reform prevent future depressions.
Roosevelt Eases the Public’s Fear • Shortly after becoming president, Roosevelt delivered his first informal radio conversation to the public. • This was the first of many ‘fireside chats’ with the American people. • The radio conversations were Roosevelt’s way of easing the public’s fear, and educating them about the new measures that he was implementing.
Criticism’s of the New Deal • Not everyone was a fan of Roosevelt’s New Deal, however, and several Americans openly criticized his proposals. • Father Charles Coughlin accused FDR of not doing enough to end the Depression; wanted to nationalize industry. • Huey Long originated the ‘Share Our Wealth’ program which proposed high taxes on the wealthy and large corporations and the redistribution of their income to the poor.
