What were the economic policies of President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the Great Depression?

History The Great Depression Questions



80 Short 80 Medium 47 Long Answer Questions Question Index

What were the economic policies of President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the Great Depression?

President Franklin D. Roosevelt implemented several economic policies during the Great Depression, collectively known as the New Deal. These policies aimed to provide relief, recovery, and reform to the struggling economy. Some key policies included:

1. Relief Programs: Roosevelt established various relief programs such as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), Works Progress Administration (WPA), and the Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) to provide employment and financial assistance to the unemployed and those in need.

2. Recovery Programs: The National Industrial Recovery Act (NIRA) was enacted to regulate industry and promote fair competition. The Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA) aimed to stabilize agricultural prices and increase farm income. These programs aimed to stimulate economic recovery by boosting production and increasing purchasing power.

3. Banking and Financial Reforms: Roosevelt implemented the Emergency Banking Act to stabilize the banking system and restore public confidence. The Glass-Steagall Act established the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to protect bank deposits. These reforms aimed to prevent future banking crises and restore trust in the financial sector.

4. Social Security: The Social Security Act was passed to provide a safety net for the elderly, unemployed, and disabled. It established a system of old-age pensions, unemployment insurance, and welfare benefits, providing a foundation for social welfare in the United States.

5. Regulation and Reform: Roosevelt introduced various regulatory measures to prevent another economic collapse. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) was established to regulate the stock market and prevent fraudulent practices. The Wagner Act protected workers' rights to organize and bargain collectively.

Overall, Roosevelt's economic policies aimed to provide immediate relief to those suffering from the Great Depression, stimulate economic recovery, and implement long-term reforms to prevent future economic crises.