Warmup What were some of Hoover’s political beliefs during the Great Depression?

The Nation Responds to Hoover Objective: How the people respond to Hoover’s policies.

The Nation Responds Hoover wanted to avoid direct government involvement During the Depression he modified his beliefs slightly Was quickly attacked for how he handled the Great Depression

The President Loses Favor Optimistic - the economy would get better Slowly hurt his credibility Millions began losing their jobs “I am convinced that we have passed the worst.” Was still getting worse Boasted about his work during the Depression Believed he protected against distress Suffering Americans disagreed People began to question his compassion Refusal to give direct relief

Bonus March Veterans of WWI given certificates worth $1,000 redeemable 1945 Most out of work – asked to redeem early Went to capital Hoover refused to acknowledge Congressional hearing Senate decides not to pay Most of 15,000 veterans left Several thousand stayed

Bonus March Built shantytowns and protested peacefully Many believed them to be a threat A few protestors were killed with tear gas by police Hoover feared a battle – sent in military Infantry, cavalry, and tanks Shantytowns ordered to be burned “If an army must be called to make war on unarmed citizens, this is no longer America.”

Taxes Hoover believed in a “balanced budget” Pushed for some tax increases which made him even less popular

The Voters React 1930 Midterm 1932 Election Democrats win a majority Depression showed no sign of getting better Hoover did not bother campaigning until October