What were the government responses to the Great Depression?

The government responses to the Great Depression included implementing various economic policies and programs to address the crisis. Some of the key government responses were:

1. The New Deal: President Franklin D. Roosevelt introduced the New Deal, a series of programs and reforms aimed at providing relief, recovery, and reform. It included initiatives such as the Works Progress Administration (WPA), Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), and Social Security Act.

2. Bank and Financial Reforms: The government implemented measures to stabilize the banking system, such as the Emergency Banking Act, which allowed the government to regulate and reopen banks. The Glass-Steagall Act separated commercial and investment banking to prevent risky practices.

3. Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA): The AAA aimed to stabilize agricultural prices by reducing production and providing subsidies to farmers. It sought to address the overproduction and falling prices that had devastated the farming sector.

4. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC): The SEC was established to regulate the stock market and protect investors from fraudulent practices. It aimed to restore confidence in the financial markets.

5. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC): The FDIC was created to insure bank deposits and restore public confidence in the banking system. It provided a guarantee to depositors that their money would be safe even if a bank failed.

6. Public Works Projects: The government invested in public works projects to create jobs and stimulate the economy. This included the construction of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and dams.

7. Monetary Policy: The government pursued expansionary monetary policies, such as lowering interest rates and increasing the money supply, to encourage borrowing and investment.

These government responses aimed to provide immediate relief to those affected by the Great Depression, stimulate economic recovery, and implement long-term reforms to prevent future economic crises.