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.

The Second New Deal