History The Great Depression Questions
President Franklin D. Roosevelt's Fourth New Deal during the Great Depression focused on implementing various economic policies to stimulate the economy and provide relief to those affected by the crisis. Some key policies included:
1. Job creation and employment: The Fourth New Deal aimed to create jobs through public works programs such as the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). These programs provided employment opportunities for millions of Americans, particularly in infrastructure development and environmental conservation projects.
2. Social security expansion: Roosevelt expanded the Social Security Act, introducing additional provisions such as unemployment insurance, aid to dependent children, and old-age pensions. These measures aimed to provide financial security and support to vulnerable individuals and families.
3. Labor rights and regulations: The Fourth New Deal introduced the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which established a minimum wage, maximum working hours, and overtime pay. This legislation aimed to protect workers' rights and improve labor conditions.
4. Agricultural policies: The Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA) was expanded under the Fourth New Deal to address the challenges faced by farmers during the Great Depression. The AAA aimed to stabilize agricultural prices and incomes by implementing production controls and providing subsidies to farmers.
5. Financial sector regulations: The Fourth New Deal introduced the Banking Act of 1935, also known as the "Second Glass-Steagall Act," which aimed to regulate the banking industry and prevent another financial crisis. This act established the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to insure bank deposits and separate commercial and investment banking activities.
Overall, the Fourth New Deal aimed to provide relief, recovery, and reform to the American economy during the Great Depression, focusing on job creation, social security expansion, labor rights, agricultural policies, and financial sector regulations.