FDR:FDR:Depression,Depression,New DealNew Deal

Wealthy NY familyWealthy NY family Cousin of TR (Republican), whom he admired greatly, Cousin of TR (Republican), whom he admired greatly,

as a Progressiveas a Progressive Harvard educated, Joined Democrats, NY legislature, Harvard educated, Joined Democrats, NY legislature,

Assist Sec of NavyAssist Sec of Navy Ran as Cox’s running mate in 1920 – lost to Harding. Ran as Cox’s running mate in 1920 – lost to Harding. Paralyzed from polio in 1921- dropped out of politicsParalyzed from polio in 1921- dropped out of politics Taught him “patience, tolerance, compassion, strength Taught him “patience, tolerance, compassion, strength

of will”: regained the power of his upper body, only: of will”: regained the power of his upper body, only: was able to “walk” with aid of crutches, braces, was able to “walk” with aid of crutches, braces, assistance from his sons, or rode in a wheelchair assistance from his sons, or rode in a wheelchair

Returned to politics in 1928, spoke at nomination of Returned to politics in 1928, spoke at nomination of Smith to run against Hoover – then elected Gov. of NYSmith to run against Hoover – then elected Gov. of NY

Great Depression 3.1B

FDR with young polio victim

1932: won Democratic Party nomination over Al Smith, to 1932: won Democratic Party nomination over Al Smith, to oppose Hooveroppose Hoover

Promised sweeping social and economic reform: pledged a Promised sweeping social and economic reform: pledged a “New Deal for the American people," a New Deal for the “New Deal for the American people," a New Deal for the "forgotten man” "forgotten man”

Didn’t reveal any details at this stage / kept it vague, but Didn’t reveal any details at this stage / kept it vague, but promised huge Federal Government Intervention / direct promised huge Federal Government Intervention / direct Fed. Govt. action / direct relief / regulation…abandon Fed. Govt. action / direct relief / regulation…abandon Laissez Faire EconomicsLaissez Faire Economics

Upbeat, happy, optimistic, charismatic personality, Upbeat, happy, optimistic, charismatic personality, impressive speaker, in contrast to the grim, dour Hooverimpressive speaker, in contrast to the grim, dour Hoover

““Happy Days are Here Again” was the theme song of his Happy Days are Here Again” was the theme song of his campaigncampaign

Skillfully handled the press, answering their questions in his Skillfully handled the press, answering their questions in his frequent press conferences (they kept his secret about frequent press conferences (they kept his secret about polio / disability from the public)polio / disability from the public)

Great Depression 3.1C

FDR in a parade

Great Depression 3.1A

Montage of Franklin Delano Roosevelt

Benefited from the activities and popularity of his wife, Benefited from the activities and popularity of his wife, Eleanor…an active Progressive: member of Women’s Eleanor…an active Progressive: member of Women’s Trade Union league and League of Women Voters; Trade Union league and League of Women Voters; supported end to child labor, improved health care, supported end to child labor, improved health care, better conditions in state hospitalsbetter conditions in state hospitals

She was, in part, his social conscience, his eyes and ears She was, in part, his social conscience, his eyes and ears for the suffering of the less well off and disadvantaged for the suffering of the less well off and disadvantaged (though their personal relationship was strained due to (though their personal relationship was strained due to his extra-marital affairs)his extra-marital affairs)

Won 1932 election by a landslide FDR; 472 - 59 Won 1932 election by a landslide FDR; 472 - 59 electoral votes (would any Democratic candidate have electoral votes (would any Democratic candidate have won the election?– this is why Al Smith was so upset won the election?– this is why Al Smith was so upset that FDR won the nomination over him); that FDR won the nomination over him);

Democrats controlled both houses of Congress too – a Democrats controlled both houses of Congress too – a big advantagebig advantage

Great Depression 3.3F

Eleanor Roosevelt (center)

Won a big majority of African American votes – the Won a big majority of African American votes – the first Democrat to do sofirst Democrat to do so

Voter realignment: African Americans rejected party of Voter realignment: African Americans rejected party of Lincoln / Emancipation because of Hoover’s inaction Lincoln / Emancipation because of Hoover’s inaction and seeming indifference to the suffering of ordinary and seeming indifference to the suffering of ordinary people, esp. minorities (Republicans had become the people, esp. minorities (Republicans had become the party of big business)party of big business)

Inauguration: “the only thing we have to fear is fear Inauguration: “the only thing we have to fear is fear itself”itself”

Initiated radio “Initiated radio “fire-side chatsfire-side chats” to explain what he was ” to explain what he was doing / Govt. policy, in simple language people could doing / Govt. policy, in simple language people could understand, and by so doing to build public confidence understand, and by so doing to build public confidence in his admin.in his admin.

One of his first reforms - reduce the “lame duck period” One of his first reforms - reduce the “lame duck period” from March to January 20from March to January 20th th (20(20thth Amend, 1933) Amend, 1933)

Great Depression 3.3E

From the party of Lincoln to the party of Roosevelt

To work out the details of Fed. Govt. action he put To work out the details of Fed. Govt. action he put together a “Braintrust”: inc. Democrats, Republicans, together a “Braintrust”: inc. Democrats, Republicans, college professors, Progressive Reformers…African college professors, Progressive Reformers…African Americans, Jewish, Catholics, women (Americans, Jewish, Catholics, women (Frances Perkins Frances Perkins was app. Sec of Labor – first ever women to serve in a was app. Sec of Labor – first ever women to serve in a Cabinet positionCabinet position)…the most diverse group assembled in )…the most diverse group assembled in US History to advise a President or Govt. US History to advise a President or Govt.

From their input began a flurry of activity over the next From their input began a flurry of activity over the next 100 days: 15 pieces of legislation (most ever in such a 100 days: 15 pieces of legislation (most ever in such a short period) setting up numerous agencies and projects short period) setting up numerous agencies and projects and initiativesand initiatives

Great Depression 3.1F

FDR at his Desk

Democratic Congress approved of everything: big Democratic Congress approved of everything: big advantage – gave FDR a blank check (executive and advantage – gave FDR a blank check (executive and legislative powers?)legislative powers?)

One of his first goals was to restore public confidence in One of his first goals was to restore public confidence in the banking systemthe banking system

Passed the Passed the Emergency Banking Relief ActEmergency Banking Relief Act

The banking crisis was at fever pitch - about 9,000 banks The banking crisis was at fever pitch - about 9,000 banks collapsing since 1929; depositors continued to withdraw collapsing since 1929; depositors continued to withdraw money from those that remained openmoney from those that remained open

The Act closed the banks for four days (March 6 to 10) - The Act closed the banks for four days (March 6 to 10) - a Bank Holiday. a Bank Holiday.

The bill provided for the inspection of all banks by the The bill provided for the inspection of all banks by the Treasury Dept. before they would be allowed to be Treasury Dept. before they would be allowed to be reopened. Federal assistance would be given to some reopened. Federal assistance would be given to some troubled banks and those in greatest difficulty would be troubled banks and those in greatest difficulty would be thoroughly reorganized….. thoroughly reorganized….. Bank RegulationBank Regulation by Govt. / by Govt. / Fed Reserve.. Fed Reserve..

Only stable, safe banks, on a sound-footing would be Only stable, safe banks, on a sound-footing would be allowed to reopen: restore public confidence; get people allowed to reopen: restore public confidence; get people to save with the banks again: savings became loansto save with the banks again: savings became loans

Explained to the public, in Explained to the public, in Fireside ChatsFireside Chats, what the Act , what the Act hoped to achieve: told an audience of 35m that "it is hoped to achieve: told an audience of 35m that "it is safer to keep your money in a reopened bank than under safer to keep your money in a reopened bank than under the mattress". the mattress".

Succeeded in winning public confidence: 75% of the Succeeded in winning public confidence: 75% of the banks reopened within the next three days, and $1b in banks reopened within the next three days, and $1b in hoarded currency and gold flowed back into them within hoarded currency and gold flowed back into them within a montha month

For the first time since the Crash the amount of money For the first time since the Crash the amount of money saved in banks exceeded the amount of money saved in banks exceeded the amount of money withdrawn. The immediate banking crisis was overwithdrawn. The immediate banking crisis was over

FDR now began to formulate and implement more of FDR now began to formulate and implement more of his New Deal his New Deal

Based on an interventionist philosophy: Federal Govt. Based on an interventionist philosophy: Federal Govt. involvement / responsibility in Economic / Social involvement / responsibility in Economic / Social issues: movement away from Laissez Faire of previous issues: movement away from Laissez Faire of previous administrations / regulation: trial and error if administrations / regulation: trial and error if necessary, but definite interventionnecessary, but definite intervention

Relief, Recovery, ReformRelief, Recovery, Reform New Deal can be divided into programs / initiatives New Deal can be divided into programs / initiatives

for for

ReliefRelief (immediate / short term / for the unemployed): (immediate / short term / for the unemployed): FERA, CCC, PWA, CWA..FERA, CCC, PWA, CWA..

RecoveryRecovery (long-term / to stimulate the Economy), (long-term / to stimulate the Economy), NRA, AAA, HOLC, TVANRA, AAA, HOLC, TVA

ReformReform (permanent / to prevent such a serious Crash (permanent / to prevent such a serious Crash and Economic Depression occurring again) and Economic Depression occurring again) Truth in Securities, SEC, Glass Steagall, FDICTruth in Securities, SEC, Glass Steagall, FDIC

ReliefRelief Federal Emergency Relief Act / Administration (FERAFederal Emergency Relief Act / Administration (FERA))

At first given $500m - eventually reaching $3billion - to At first given $500m - eventually reaching $3billion - to be distributed by this new agency FERAbe distributed by this new agency FERA

Money given to state and voluntary local relief agencies Money given to state and voluntary local relief agencies who were under so much pressure, to provide food / soupwho were under so much pressure, to provide food / soup

And to cities and states to begin public works projects And to cities and states to begin public works projects

And to cities to provide And to cities to provide doledole payments to the payments to the unemployed unemployed

FERA was to be headed by Harry Hopkins, a former social FERA was to be headed by Harry Hopkins, a former social worker, one of FDR's close friends and advisorworker, one of FDR's close friends and advisor

FERA sprung into action and distributed $5m in just two FERA sprung into action and distributed $5m in just two hours hours

Critics urged FDR / Hopkins not to give away Fed. Govt. Critics urged FDR / Hopkins not to give away Fed. Govt. money so quickly: Hopkins replied that - "people don't eat money so quickly: Hopkins replied that - "people don't eat in the long run - they have to eat every day”in the long run - they have to eat every day”

Dole payments were criticized by Hoover, others – would Dole payments were criticized by Hoover, others – would kill incentive, initiative to find jobs, destroy human kill incentive, initiative to find jobs, destroy human dignity….dignity….

FDR also had reservations but intended dole to be FDR also had reservations but intended dole to be temporary – eventually he hoped to take people off the temporary – eventually he hoped to take people off the dole through creating jobsdole through creating jobs

Job creation would come through Job creation would come through FederalFederal agencies such agencies such as the as the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps )CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps )

One of the most popular of the New Deal agencies. It put One of the most popular of the New Deal agencies. It put hundreds of thousands of unemployed restless wandering hundreds of thousands of unemployed restless wandering urban young men to work on environmental projects – urban young men to work on environmental projects – reforestation, flood control, and conservation. reforestation, flood control, and conservation.

Members of the CCC lived in barracks / camps in national Members of the CCC lived in barracks / camps in national parks and forests and followed a strict, semi-military parks and forests and followed a strict, semi-military schedule….for the purpose of discipline – criticized for schedule….for the purpose of discipline – criticized for “militarizing young men”“militarizing young men”

Room and board and monthly salary of $30 provided to Room and board and monthly salary of $30 provided to each worker; usually sent back to wife and family. each worker; usually sent back to wife and family.

Great Depression 3.1E

Young Americans working in the Civilian Conservation Corps

Also among the first recruits were the veterans of the Also among the first recruits were the veterans of the Bonus ArmyBonus Army

By the time it ended, the CCC provided jobs for over By the time it ended, the CCC provided jobs for over 3m (not simultaneously)3m (not simultaneously)

Another agency was the Another agency was the Public Works Admin (PWA),Public Works Admin (PWA), under Secretary of the Interior, Harold Ickes: same goal under Secretary of the Interior, Harold Ickes: same goal - to provide jobs for the unemployed through public - to provide jobs for the unemployed through public works projectsworks projects

Given $4b – eventually carried out 34,000 public works Given $4b – eventually carried out 34,000 public works projects, employing 4m people: building schools and projects, employing 4m people: building schools and dams, refurbishing govt. buildings, improving highwaysdams, refurbishing govt. buildings, improving highways

revitalized the economies of entire communities revitalized the economies of entire communities throughout the US: gave work to local workers, throughout the US: gave work to local workers, contracts to local businesses providing materials, contracts to local businesses providing materials, supplies.. stimulated industry and spurred economic supplies.. stimulated industry and spurred economic recoveryrecovery

another agency to provide jobs was another agency to provide jobs was the the Civil Works Civil Works AdministrationAdministration (CWA) - (CWA) - provide temporary relief provide temporary relief during winter - jobs raking leaves, clearing snow etc .. during winter - jobs raking leaves, clearing snow etc .. eventually came under jurisdiction of the FERAeventually came under jurisdiction of the FERA

Huge contrast to Hoover’s ResponseHuge contrast to Hoover’s Response

RecoveryRecovery The The National Industrial Recovery Act / AdministrationNational Industrial Recovery Act / Administration

(NIRA / NRA)(NIRA / NRA) was passed to get industrialists in the was passed to get industrialists in the same line of business to co-operate about production same line of business to co-operate about production quotas, quality, codes, prices, fair competition…to self-quotas, quality, codes, prices, fair competition…to self-regulate….anti-trust legislation / govt. regulation would regulate….anti-trust legislation / govt. regulation would be relaxed be relaxed

Goal was to get factories producing / expanding again, Goal was to get factories producing / expanding again, by providing opportunities for reasonable profits for by providing opportunities for reasonable profits for businessbusiness

And to create jobs – help with cooperation between And to create jobs – help with cooperation between industrialists and labor unions about recognition of industrialists and labor unions about recognition of unions, collective bargaining, fair wages, hours, unions, collective bargaining, fair wages, hours, conditions, ending child labor….preventing costly conditions, ending child labor….preventing costly strikes strikes

NRA claimed to have created 2m jobsNRA claimed to have created 2m jobs

FDR called it the most important and far reaching FDR called it the most important and far reaching legislation ever passed by Congress. legislation ever passed by Congress.

Business leaders hailed it as the beginning of a new era Business leaders hailed it as the beginning of a new era of cooperation between govt. and industry and Labor of cooperation between govt. and industry and Labor leaders praised it as a "second Magna Carta" for leaders praised it as a "second Magna Carta" for workers. There was, it seemed, something in the bill for workers. There was, it seemed, something in the bill for everyoneeveryone

Industrialists joined voluntarily; huge propaganda / Industrialists joined voluntarily; huge propaganda / publicity campaign to encourage them to do sopublicity campaign to encourage them to do so

Meetings, parades to generate enthusiasm /support; NRA Meetings, parades to generate enthusiasm /support; NRA adopted as its symbol the Blue Eagle (NFL team; adopted as its symbol the Blue Eagle (NFL team; Philadelphia Eagles) – displayed by businesses who Philadelphia Eagles) – displayed by businesses who joined joined

NRA encouraged people to purchase from businesses NRA encouraged people to purchase from businesses displaying the Blue Eagledisplaying the Blue Eagle

However, small business owners soon began to complain However, small business owners soon began to complain that big business dominated the NRA, set codes, standards that big business dominated the NRA, set codes, standards that they could not meet which forced them to shut down that they could not meet which forced them to shut down

Labor unions also complained that the NRA did not Labor unions also complained that the NRA did not bring about very many improvements for workers …bring about very many improvements for workers …began to disaffiliate….frequent strikes in 1934began to disaffiliate….frequent strikes in 1934

After 2 yrs of Success (limited?) it wd be overturned / After 2 yrs of Success (limited?) it wd be overturned / declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court

Schechter Case - Sick Chicken Case: Supreme Court Schechter Case - Sick Chicken Case: Supreme Court ruled that the attempt to shut down a NY poultry ruled that the attempt to shut down a NY poultry business was a violation of the Inter State Commerce business was a violation of the Inter State Commerce Clause and that the NRA gave the President Clause and that the NRA gave the President unconstitutional legislative Powers unconstitutional legislative Powers

Agricultural Adjustment Act, 1933Agricultural Adjustment Act, 1933, set up the , set up the Agricultural Adjustment Administration (AAA)Agricultural Adjustment Administration (AAA)

Basically to offer to farmers what the NRA offered to Basically to offer to farmers what the NRA offered to industry; to regulate production of 7 basic items - wheat, industry; to regulate production of 7 basic items - wheat, cotton, corn, hogs, rice, tobacco, dairy productscotton, corn, hogs, rice, tobacco, dairy products

To reduce the food supply and increase prices / profits: To reduce the food supply and increase prices / profits: less is more: to create "subsidized scarcity"less is more: to create "subsidized scarcity"

The AAA would decide on production limits, and pay The AAA would decide on production limits, and pay farmers subsidies for leaving their land idle farmers subsidies for leaving their land idle

Subsidies were to be funded by a tax on food processors Subsidies were to be funded by a tax on food processors

Crops were already planted for the 1933 season: AAA Crops were already planted for the 1933 season: AAA oversaw the large scale destruction of existing crops oversaw the large scale destruction of existing crops and livestock to reduce surpluses: 6m pigs, tons of and livestock to reduce surpluses: 6m pigs, tons of wheat, corn……destroyedwheat, corn……destroyed

Critics called it "sinful waste“ – should have been Critics called it "sinful waste“ – should have been distributed to the poor / unemployed?distributed to the poor / unemployed?

Great success: prices increased by half between 1933 Great success: prices increased by half between 1933 and 1936: farmers (those who had not lost their land) and 1936: farmers (those who had not lost their land) saw profits / income improve for the first time in 20 saw profits / income improve for the first time in 20 yrs…. the agricultural economy was stabilizedyrs…. the agricultural economy was stabilized

Govt. made loans available to farmers to pay their Govt. made loans available to farmers to pay their mortgages through the AAA, and the Home Owners Loan mortgages through the AAA, and the Home Owners Loan Corporation (HOLC), (later the FHA was also set up)Corporation (HOLC), (later the FHA was also set up)

Frazier-Lemke Farm Bankruptcy Act suspended mortgage Frazier-Lemke Farm Bankruptcy Act suspended mortgage foreclosure for 5 yrs, mainly in the Dust Bowl areasforeclosure for 5 yrs, mainly in the Dust Bowl areas

The Resettlement Administration helped farmers to move The Resettlement Administration helped farmers to move to new, more profitable lands, out of the Dust Bowl to new, more profitable lands, out of the Dust Bowl regionregion

But eventually the AAA would meet the same fate as the But eventually the AAA would meet the same fate as the NRA - declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in NRA - declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in 1935...- the tax on food processors was illegal / 1935...- the tax on food processors was illegal / unconstitutionalunconstitutional

Another New Deal recovery program was the Another New Deal recovery program was the Tennessee Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)Valley Authority (TVA)..

Was an unprecedented experiment in regional Was an unprecedented experiment in regional development and public planning, in a very poor regiondevelopment and public planning, in a very poor region

Built dams along the Tennessee River (total of 25) - the Built dams along the Tennessee River (total of 25) - the biggest one at Muscle Shoals - to generate inexpensive biggest one at Muscle Shoals - to generate inexpensive electricityelectricity

Also engaged in helping with fishing, manufacture of Also engaged in helping with fishing, manufacture of fertilizer, tourism, begin reforestation, helped farmers to fertilizer, tourism, begin reforestation, helped farmers to improve productivity through using machinery, improve productivity through using machinery, preventing flooding, soil erosion…preventing flooding, soil erosion…

Huge boost to the region: generated thousands of jobsHuge boost to the region: generated thousands of jobs

Like NRA and AAA, was criticized by some: byLike NRA and AAA, was criticized by some: by

Some farmers whose lands were flooded due to the new Some farmers whose lands were flooded due to the new damsdams

Some local businessmen, producers of electricity, Some local businessmen, producers of electricity, fertilizers, who could not compete with new reduced fertilizers, who could not compete with new reduced prices prices

Some minorities who charged that there was Some minorities who charged that there was discrimination in hiring by the TVAdiscrimination in hiring by the TVA

Some Conservatives who accused the govt. of engaging Some Conservatives who accused the govt. of engaging in “creeping Socialism”in “creeping Socialism”

Alphabet SoupAlphabet Soup

Relief – FERA, CCC, PWA, CWARelief – FERA, CCC, PWA, CWA Recovery – NRA, AAA, HOLC, TVARecovery – NRA, AAA, HOLC, TVA

Derisively called FDR’s “alphabet soup” by the Derisively called FDR’s “alphabet soup” by the bitter Al Smithbitter Al Smith

Huge contrast to Hoover’s responseHuge contrast to Hoover’s response

Great Depression 3.1G

Dr. New Deal

ReformReform Reform of Stock MarketReform of Stock Market

The Truth in Securities ActThe Truth in Securities Act was designed to eliminate was designed to eliminate fraud in the stock market. Under this law, a company fraud in the stock market. Under this law, a company that deliberately deceived investors about its financial that deliberately deceived investors about its financial status could be sued. Promoters / Stock Brokers had to status could be sued. Promoters / Stock Brokers had to give investors sworn information about the stockgive investors sworn information about the stock

Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) In 1934 In 1934 Congress went even further and established the SEC to Congress went even further and established the SEC to regulate / police / be a watchdog over the stock market. regulate / police / be a watchdog over the stock market. Hoped to prevent the kind of speculative practices that Hoped to prevent the kind of speculative practices that had led to the Wall Street Crash of 1929had led to the Wall Street Crash of 1929

Reform of Banking SystemReform of Banking System

The Glass Steagall ActThe Glass Steagall Act prohibited banks from investing prohibited banks from investing savings deposits in the stock market, which was too savings deposits in the stock market, which was too unpredictable to assure the safety of these funds. unpredictable to assure the safety of these funds.

It also established the It also established the Federal Deposit Insurance Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)Corporation (FDIC) to insure bank deposits up to to insure bank deposits up to $2,500, later increased to $5000 - by the 1939 this was $2,500, later increased to $5000 - by the 1939 this was raised to $15,000 - it is now $100,000 - in all member raised to $15,000 - it is now $100,000 - in all member banks. banks.

These two reforms led to even more confidence being These two reforms led to even more confidence being regained in the banking system (with Emergence regained in the banking system (with Emergence Banking Relief Act) feeling that deposits would be safeBanking Relief Act) feeling that deposits would be safe

FDR also Repealed 18FDR also Repealed 18thth Prohibition Amendment in Prohibition Amendment in 1933, as he had promised in his election campaign, 1933, as he had promised in his election campaign, with 21st Amendmentwith 21st Amendment

Hoped to increase in Fed govt. revenues from taxes, as Hoped to increase in Fed govt. revenues from taxes, as well as put an end to disorder due to gangsters, and well as put an end to disorder due to gangsters, and provide employment opportunities, as well as protect provide employment opportunities, as well as protect Civil Liberties Civil Liberties

Impact of the New DealImpact of the New Deal Economy began to recoverEconomy began to recover By 1934: the national income rose by 25%, hundreds of By 1934: the national income rose by 25%, hundreds of

businesses re-opened, farming incomes increased, businesses re-opened, farming incomes increased, millions of people who had been unemployed were millions of people who had been unemployed were receiving relief /dole or working on federally funded jobsreceiving relief /dole or working on federally funded jobs

But the Depression was still deep and serious and there But the Depression was still deep and serious and there was a long way to gowas a long way to go

On average workers in the cities made 13% less than they On average workers in the cities made 13% less than they had made in 1929had made in 1929

10m workers were still unemployed.10m workers were still unemployed. Farm prices lagged 28% behind 1929 prices.Farm prices lagged 28% behind 1929 prices. Nearly 20% of the working pop was still unemployedNearly 20% of the working pop was still unemployed

Some groups were very critical of FDR /New Deal – Some groups were very critical of FDR /New Deal – some felt he did too little, some felt he did too muchsome felt he did too little, some felt he did too much

Small businesses criticized the NRASmall businesses criticized the NRA Labor groups felt industrialists benefited more…strikes Labor groups felt industrialists benefited more…strikes

in auto and steel industriesin auto and steel industries Tenant Famers; evicted: their rented land left idle to help Tenant Famers; evicted: their rented land left idle to help

farmers qualify for subsidyfarmers qualify for subsidy Conservatives / Businessmen criticized heavy “reckless Conservatives / Businessmen criticized heavy “reckless

spending,” reliance on "economic crackpots", and spending,” reliance on "economic crackpots", and “socialist policies,” for too much govt. intervention; “socialist policies,” for too much govt. intervention; formed American Liberty League to oppose his policiesformed American Liberty League to oppose his policies

Supreme Court: pro-business, Republican; shut down Supreme Court: pro-business, Republican; shut down NRA and AAANRA and AAA

Claimed he was saving Capitalism by Reforming it…his policies were not radical, they evolved from the Progressive Years

3 Popular Leaders / Demagogues emerged with critical 3 Popular Leaders / Demagogues emerged with critical viewsviews

Dr. Francis TownshendDr. Francis Townshend; ; 66 yr old retired CA doctor 66 yr old retired CA doctor from Long Beach, had just become bankrupt; came up from Long Beach, had just become bankrupt; came up with a radical plan to aid senior citizens while at the with a radical plan to aid senior citizens while at the same time stimulating the economysame time stimulating the economy

Every person over the age of 60 would be asked to Every person over the age of 60 would be asked to retire, freeing up jobs for younger people. Each retired retire, freeing up jobs for younger people. Each retired person would receive a federal pension of $200 a month person would receive a federal pension of $200 a month – funded by a 2% special sales tax - on the condition – funded by a 2% special sales tax - on the condition that the entire sum of money was spent in 30 daysthat the entire sum of money was spent in 30 days

He claimed that the pension would rescue the elderly He claimed that the pension would rescue the elderly from poverty, and enforced spending would act as a from poverty, and enforced spending would act as a transfusion of cash into the economytransfusion of cash into the economy

Ideas were popular among elderly: supposedly had a Ideas were popular among elderly: supposedly had a following of 5m, showing the level of discontent with following of 5m, showing the level of discontent with their exclusion from the New Dealtheir exclusion from the New Deal

Plan defeated by Congress in 1935…impractical, too Plan defeated by Congress in 1935…impractical, too expensiveexpensive

But some of his ideas were later incorporated in the But some of his ideas were later incorporated in the Social Security systemSocial Security system

Fr. Charles CoughlinFr. Charles Coughlin; a; a maverick Roman Catholic maverick Roman Catholic priest from Detroit, dubbed the "microphone messiah“ – priest from Detroit, dubbed the "microphone messiah“ – had a weekly radio sermon-show: 40m listeners; largest had a weekly radio sermon-show: 40m listeners; largest radio show in the US radio show in the US

Described as a Demagogue - leader who gains power by Described as a Demagogue - leader who gains power by appealing to peoples prejudices and fears rather than to appealing to peoples prejudices and fears rather than to reason; blamed the Depression on the Jews, in reason; blamed the Depression on the Jews, in particular Jewish Bankers; strongly anti-Semiticparticular Jewish Bankers; strongly anti-Semitic

Supported New Deal at first, then turned on the Govt. Supported New Deal at first, then turned on the Govt. for doing too littlefor doing too little

Called for a new plan of "Social Justice"...through:Called for a new plan of "Social Justice"...through:

nationalizing the banks, free silver, increased money nationalizing the banks, free silver, increased money supply, redistributed of wealthsupply, redistributed of wealth

formed the National Union for Social Justice, made formed the National Union for Social Justice, made impassioned speeches at public meetings – attracted impassioned speeches at public meetings – attracted sizeable support in Eastern cities and among some sizeable support in Eastern cities and among some members of Congressmembers of Congress

eventually silenced by the Catholic Church: embarrassed eventually silenced by the Catholic Church: embarrassed because of his blatant anti-Semitism and harsh remarks because of his blatant anti-Semitism and harsh remarks about the govt. about the govt.

Faded from limelight – often accused of having Fascist Faded from limelight – often accused of having Fascist leanings? leanings?

Senator Huey P. Long (Senator Huey P. Long (nicknamed the "Kingfish“); nicknamed the "Kingfish“); Governor of Louisiana: dominated politics like an old Governor of Louisiana: dominated politics like an old machine boss / dictator: machine boss / dictator:

Considered the most dangerous of the “demagogues”Considered the most dangerous of the “demagogues”

Yet, was very popular with voters in Louisiana; Yet, was very popular with voters in Louisiana; attracted by his flamboyant personality, record of attracted by his flamboyant personality, record of accomplishments for working classes – fair tax system, accomplishments for working classes – fair tax system, free text books, lowering utility rates, building schools free text books, lowering utility rates, building schools in poorer areas, building roads and bridges in parts of in poorer areas, building roads and bridges in parts of the city previously neglected. the city previously neglected.

Great Depression 3.3A

Huey Long campaigning

Elected to US Senate in 1930: at first supported FDR, then Elected to US Senate in 1930: at first supported FDR, then broke with him. broke with him.

He launched his own program called "Share Our Wealth", He launched his own program called "Share Our Wealth", with the slogan, "Every man a king, but no one wears a with the slogan, "Every man a king, but no one wears a crown". crown".

Proposed that the govt. limit all incomes to $1m annually, Proposed that the govt. limit all incomes to $1m annually, limit capital accumulation and inheritance to $5m limit capital accumulation and inheritance to $5m

Through confiscation and redistribution Govt. should Through confiscation and redistribution Govt. should provide every US family with a minimum of a $5,000 provide every US family with a minimum of a $5,000 home, and an annual income of between $2,500 to $5,000. home, and an annual income of between $2,500 to $5,000.

Attracted a following of about 4mAttracted a following of about 4m

Considered challenging FDR for the Democratic Party Considered challenging FDR for the Democratic Party nomination or running for Pres as a third party candidate. nomination or running for Pres as a third party candidate.

But was assassinated in 1935But was assassinated in 1935

All three - Townshend, Coughlin, Long…not serious All three - Townshend, Coughlin, Long…not serious threats, not really Fascist, Socialist, Communist. threats, not really Fascist, Socialist, Communist.

All wanted more Govt. assistance, involvement, reform All wanted more Govt. assistance, involvement, reform programs to help the poor, unemployed, disadvantaged…programs to help the poor, unemployed, disadvantaged…all had visions of a more equitable, more just, societyall had visions of a more equitable, more just, society

Their specific movements / organizations did not Their specific movements / organizations did not succeed; were dubbed as crackpots or dreamerssucceed; were dubbed as crackpots or dreamers

But their significance was that they made FDR realize But their significance was that they made FDR realize that he needed to keep on working to make things that he needed to keep on working to make things better: and some of their ideas would be incorporated in better: and some of their ideas would be incorporated in his second New Dealhis second New Deal

Faced with continuing Depression and Criticism…..he Faced with continuing Depression and Criticism…..he introduced a Second New Deal in 1935…committed to introduced a Second New Deal in 1935…committed to be less concerned with balancing the budget and less be less concerned with balancing the budget and less concerned with the sensitivities of big businessconcerned with the sensitivities of big business

Second New DealSecond New Deal New FocusNew Focus Upset by the criticism of big business he was Upset by the criticism of big business he was

determined to be less concerned about trying to please determined to be less concerned about trying to please big business - as he had with the NRA – less tolerant of big business - as he had with the NRA – less tolerant of monopoliesmonopolies

Determined to give more assistance to Labor, Youth, Determined to give more assistance to Labor, Youth, Elderly, UnemployedElderly, Unemployed

Determined to fully engage in Keynesian Economics: Determined to fully engage in Keynesian Economics: to stop worrying about balancing the budget; a planned to stop worrying about balancing the budget; a planned deficit was ok: deficit increased from $20b in 1932, to deficit was ok: deficit increased from $20b in 1932, to $40b in 1937, to $258b in 1945$40b in 1937, to $258b in 1945

Great Depression 3.3B

Caption (unseen): “Nonsense! If it gets too deep, you can always pull me out.”

In spite of the criticism, FDR easily won the Pres El of In spite of the criticism, FDR easily won the Pres El of 1936, defeating Rep candidate Alfred Landon 1936, defeating Rep candidate Alfred Landon convincingly - a landslide: 523 to 8convincingly - a landslide: 523 to 8

Continued to win majority of African American votes, as Continued to win majority of African American votes, as in 1932in 1932

Second New Deal Legislation;Second New Deal Legislation;

1935 - 1935 - Works Progress Administration Works Progress Administration (WPA) - (WPA) - budget of $4.8 b - reached $11b – public works budget of $4.8 b - reached $11b – public works programs…building hospitals, schools, airports, programs…building hospitals, schools, airports, playgrounds, to provide jobsplaygrounds, to provide jobs

WPA focused on using talents of professionals: WPA focused on using talents of professionals: unemployed teachers, artists, writers (Steinbeck), actors unemployed teachers, artists, writers (Steinbeck), actors – employed in community: held workshops, seminars, – employed in community: held workshops, seminars, tutoringtutoring

Employed 9m over 8 yrs: great help in stimulating the Employed 9m over 8 yrs: great help in stimulating the Economy Economy

1935 - 1935 - National Youth AdministrationNational Youth Administration - assistance to - assistance to those aged 16-25, largely in the form of assistance in those aged 16-25, largely in the form of assistance in getting jobs and with scholarshipgetting jobs and with scholarship

1935 - 1935 - The Social Security ActThe Social Security Act was passed; US was the was passed; US was the only modern democracy in the world without some only modern democracy in the world without some system of government welfaresystem of government welfare

A landmark Act - one of the most far-reaching acts ever A landmark Act - one of the most far-reaching acts ever passed by Congress. Came about as a result of lobbying passed by Congress. Came about as a result of lobbying by Sec of Labor Frances Perkins, and the popularity of by Sec of Labor Frances Perkins, and the popularity of the Townshend movement.the Townshend movement.

This program instituted pensions for the elderly, the This program instituted pensions for the elderly, the orphaned, the unemployed, the blind, physically orphaned, the unemployed, the blind, physically handicapped, and those injured in industrial accidents. handicapped, and those injured in industrial accidents. Fed. Govt. accepted direct responsibility for meeting the Fed. Govt. accepted direct responsibility for meeting the basic needs of its citizensbasic needs of its citizens

Monthly Social Security payments ranged from $10 to Monthly Social Security payments ranged from $10 to $85. By 1939, 45m people were eligible for some $85. By 1939, 45m people were eligible for some payment. payment.

Soc. Sec. became not so much a form of welfare Soc. Sec. became not so much a form of welfare payment as a type of insurance scheme - financed by payment as a type of insurance scheme - financed by employer, employee, govt.employer, employee, govt.

Republicans were opposed to it – it might take away Republicans were opposed to it – it might take away incentive, like Dole paymentsincentive, like Dole payments

Flaws in the system in the beginning: millions of people did Flaws in the system in the beginning: millions of people did not qualify - domestic servants, agricultural laborers: many not qualify - domestic servants, agricultural laborers: many of these were often members of minority groups, or of these were often members of minority groups, or women….loop holes would be fixed laterwomen….loop holes would be fixed later

1935 - The Wagner Act (National Labor 1935 - The Wagner Act (National Labor Relations/Recovery Act) Relations/Recovery Act) – to safeguard workers’ rights: – to safeguard workers’ rights: restore rights of Clayton Anti Trust Act…collective restore rights of Clayton Anti Trust Act…collective bargaining, right to strike…. bargaining, right to strike….

Set up a new federal agency, the Set up a new federal agency, the National Labor Relations National Labor Relations Board Board (NLRB) to ensure that employers followed the new (NLRB) to ensure that employers followed the new laws…to mediate in disputeslaws…to mediate in disputes

The Fair Labor Standards ActThe Fair Labor Standards Act forced businesses forced businesses engaged in interstate commerce to pay a minimum wage engaged in interstate commerce to pay a minimum wage laws, and have maximum work days (40c an hour and 40 laws, and have maximum work days (40c an hour and 40 hrs a week): Later introduced - no factory work for kids hrs a week): Later introduced - no factory work for kids U.16 U.16

1936, the 1936, the Soil Conservation ActSoil Conservation Act and the Second and the Second Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 – basically re-Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 – basically re-created the AAAcreated the AAA

Farmers were paid subsidies to cut back on traditional Farmers were paid subsidies to cut back on traditional crops and to instead plant soil conserving crops such as crops and to instead plant soil conserving crops such as soybeans. soybeans.

But now, the money for farm subsidies would come from But now, the money for farm subsidies would come from the treasury not from a tax on food processing the treasury not from a tax on food processing companiescompanies

1935 - The 1935 - The Rural Electrification ActRural Electrification Act - (REA) lent - (REA) lent money to groups of farmers who organized to build money to groups of farmers who organized to build power plants. Utility companies had refused to build power plants. Utility companies had refused to build plants in some isolated rural areas - as a result, before the plants in some isolated rural areas - as a result, before the REA, fewer than one in ten US farms had electricity. By REA, fewer than one in ten US farms had electricity. By the late 1940s, however, electricity had been extended to the late 1940s, however, electricity had been extended to 90% of the all farms90% of the all farms

1935 - 1935 - The Public Utilities Holding Company ActThe Public Utilities Holding Company Act – – govt. regulation of the utility companies - helped govt. regulation of the utility companies - helped eliminate corruption and inefficiency and reduce eliminate corruption and inefficiency and reduce consumer costs - they complained that the govt. was consumer costs - they complained that the govt. was interfering too much in the private business.interfering too much in the private business.

1938 - 1938 - The Temporary National Economic The Temporary National Economic Committee Committee (TNEC) - set up to consider major reforms (TNEC) - set up to consider major reforms of anti trust laws to end or regulate monopolies. of anti trust laws to end or regulate monopolies.

1935 - 1935 - The Revenue ActThe Revenue Act - increased taxes on incomes - increased taxes on incomes of wealthy corporations and individuals. Convinced of wealthy corporations and individuals. Convinced millions of Americans that the President was on their millions of Americans that the President was on their side – FDR’s popularity soared as the 1936 election side – FDR’s popularity soared as the 1936 election nearedneared

1935 - 1935 - The US Housing AuthorityThe US Housing Authority (USHA) was set up (USHA) was set up

to loan money to states and communities for low cost to loan money to states and communities for low cost housing reconstruction. Hoped to clear inner city slums - housing reconstruction. Hoped to clear inner city slums - not as successful as was hoped - opposed by real estate not as successful as was hoped - opposed by real estate agents and landlords of inner city slum dwellings..agents and landlords of inner city slum dwellings..

Court Packing SchemeCourt Packing Scheme: super confident after his : super confident after his election victory: frustrated by overturn of NRA and election victory: frustrated by overturn of NRA and AAA, and of 7 other lawsAAA, and of 7 other laws

Wanted to change the composition of the Supreme Wanted to change the composition of the Supreme Court: introduced a Bill to increase the number of Court: introduced a Bill to increase the number of justices by 6, one for every justice over the age of 70justices by 6, one for every justice over the age of 70

Explained that he was trying to ease the workload of the Explained that he was trying to ease the workload of the aging justices, that the SC was far behind in its work. aging justices, that the SC was far behind in its work.

Condemned even by his own party – proposal defeatedCondemned even by his own party – proposal defeated

Accused of tampering with a sacred institution, trying Accused of tampering with a sacred institution, trying to upset the balance of power between the 3 branches of to upset the balance of power between the 3 branches of government / the checks and balances system. government / the checks and balances system.

Republican critics accused him of having dictatorial Republican critics accused him of having dictatorial tendencies (emergence of Mussolini, Hitler, Franco in tendencies (emergence of Mussolini, Hitler, Franco in Europe)Europe)

But served his purpose? Supreme Court never again But served his purpose? Supreme Court never again overturned a New Deal agency or law: supported overturned a New Deal agency or law: supported Wagner Act, Soc. Sec. Act - he decided to withdraw his Wagner Act, Soc. Sec. Act - he decided to withdraw his proposal – was the court intimidated or shocked into proposal – was the court intimidated or shocked into reality? (Ex Parte Milligan) reality? (Ex Parte Milligan)

Great Depression 3.3D

And during his presidency FDR was able to appoint a And during his presidency FDR was able to appoint a total of 9 justices - most by any president since total of 9 justices - most by any president since Washington - due to retirements and deathsWashington - due to retirements and deaths

Eventually achieved what he wanted to achieve – Eventually achieved what he wanted to achieve – created a liberal Supreme Courtcreated a liberal Supreme Court

Overall the two New Deals achieved a modest economic Overall the two New Deals achieved a modest economic recovery for the USrecovery for the US

Economy was inching its way along towards recovery: Economy was inching its way along towards recovery: unemployment had dropped from 25% to 20% and now to unemployment had dropped from 25% to 20% and now to 15%.15%.

But in 1937, the US was hit again with a mini-depression, But in 1937, the US was hit again with a mini-depression, caused bycaused by

1. increased "taxes" to pay for Soc. Sec. system1. increased "taxes" to pay for Soc. Sec. system 2. govt. cut back on spending in 19372. govt. cut back on spending in 1937

By 1938 the New Deal had lost its momentum. As a By 1938 the New Deal had lost its momentum. As a result the Democrats began to lose seats in Congress, result the Democrats began to lose seats in Congress, though they still held a majoritythough they still held a majority

As the tensions in Europe and Asia grew, resulting in As the tensions in Europe and Asia grew, resulting in WWII, the New Deal slowly ground to a halt – would WWII, the New Deal slowly ground to a halt – would not be needed any morenot be needed any more

WWII saved the US from the Depression / ended it – WWII saved the US from the Depression / ended it – first supplying Allied needs, then US war needs: “Dr first supplying Allied needs, then US war needs: “Dr Win The War replaced Dr New Deal”….war economy Win The War replaced Dr New Deal”….war economy led to full employment, economy at full capacity again led to full employment, economy at full capacity again

FDR and New DealFDR and New Deal Commitment of Fed. Gov. to large scale intervention in Commitment of Fed. Gov. to large scale intervention in

Economy and SocietyEconomy and Society Direct Unemployment Relief: Dole - FERADirect Unemployment Relief: Dole - FERA Creation of Employment through government agencies Creation of Employment through government agencies

- FERA, CCC, TVA, PWA……- FERA, CCC, TVA, PWA…… Federal Government Regulation of Industrial Economy Federal Government Regulation of Industrial Economy

– NRA, Agricultural Economy – AAA, Financial – NRA, Agricultural Economy – AAA, Financial Institutions: Banks and Stock ExchangeInstitutions: Banks and Stock Exchange

Legacy of the New Deal.Legacy of the New Deal. didn’t end the Depression, but had a number of important didn’t end the Depression, but had a number of important

and lasting effects on US politics and the economyand lasting effects on US politics and the economy helped prevent the economy from declining even furtherhelped prevent the economy from declining even further created a large array of protections for various groups of created a large array of protections for various groups of

citizens who suffered from the crisis - workers, farmers – citizens who suffered from the crisis - workers, farmers – enabled them to establish the power of the corporationsenabled them to establish the power of the corporations

increased the regulatory functions of the federal govt. in increased the regulatory functions of the federal govt. in ways that helped stabilize previously troubled areas of the ways that helped stabilize previously troubled areas of the economy…the stock market and the banking system.economy…the stock market and the banking system.

created the beginnings of the US welfare state, through its created the beginnings of the US welfare state, through its many relief programs and above all through the Soc Sec many relief programs and above all through the Soc Sec system. system.

This new system marked a historic break with the This new system marked a historic break with the nation’s traditional reluctance to offer any public nation’s traditional reluctance to offer any public assistance whatever to troubled citizens. Govt. is assistance whatever to troubled citizens. Govt. is accepting direct responsibility for the well being of its accepting direct responsibility for the well being of its citizens.citizens.

break from Laissez Faire, return in some ways to the break from Laissez Faire, return in some ways to the Progressivism of the pre-WW1 years.Progressivism of the pre-WW1 years.

Voter re-alignment: African American voters switched Voter re-alignment: African American voters switched to Democrats: Democrats won the Presidency – to Democrats: Democrats won the Presidency – identification with liberal policies afterwards; identification with liberal policies afterwards; Republican party seen as the party of Big BusinessRepublican party seen as the party of Big Business

Great Depression 3.3C

Caption: “Yes you remembered me”

FDR and Minorities - Women, African Americans, FDR and Minorities - Women, African Americans, Native AmericansNative Americans

Although his record on gender and race was mixed, to Although his record on gender and race was mixed, to the nation's women and minority groups it was the most the nation's women and minority groups it was the most accessible and sympathetic administration in the accessible and sympathetic administration in the nation's history. nation's history.

He passed legislation, created programs that benefited He passed legislation, created programs that benefited all three groups – these are considered by some to be all three groups – these are considered by some to be among the most important legacies of his New Deal.among the most important legacies of his New Deal.

Women Gain Political RecognitionWomen Gain Political Recognition Eleanor Roosevelt set the tone for women’s rights when Eleanor Roosevelt set the tone for women’s rights when

she only allowed women journalists to cover her weekly she only allowed women journalists to cover her weekly press conferences: during the Depression newspapers press conferences: during the Depression newspapers were cutting back on staff, women were the first to go were cutting back on staff, women were the first to go

She felt that if she met only with women reporters, at She felt that if she met only with women reporters, at least these women wd be retained by their employersleast these women wd be retained by their employers

She advocated political recognition for women: they She advocated political recognition for women: they were in better positions to promote child welfare, were in better positions to promote child welfare, education reform, fair labor standards, even world peace. education reform, fair labor standards, even world peace.

She worked to get women appointed to political posts. She worked to get women appointed to political posts. Role of women in govt. expanded substantially during Role of women in govt. expanded substantially during the FDR adminthe FDR admin

Perkins: first female cabinet secretary; she pushed for a Perkins: first female cabinet secretary; she pushed for a minimum wage for poorly paid womenminimum wage for poorly paid women

FDR the first to appoint women to the Fed. appeals FDR the first to appoint women to the Fed. appeals court, the first women ambassadors, and a woman as court, the first women ambassadors, and a woman as director of the mint. director of the mint.

Women were asked to serve as advisors in many New Women were asked to serve as advisors in many New Deal agencies. Deal agencies.

In all, more than 100 women held positions in the In all, more than 100 women held positions in the federal govt. during FDR’s admin. federal govt. during FDR’s admin.

Yet, even in his admin. women still faced challenges: Yet, even in his admin. women still faced challenges: app. to govt. posts where they were least likely to lead app. to govt. posts where they were least likely to lead to conflicts with men, with less influence than posts to conflicts with men, with less influence than posts held by men.held by men.

Women in the work force also experienced unfair Women in the work force also experienced unfair treatment. NRA codes often granted women lower pay treatment. NRA codes often granted women lower pay than men, even for the same job. than men, even for the same job.

Many businesses refused to hire married women Many businesses refused to hire married women during the Depression, and married women whose during the Depression, and married women whose husbands worked were often forced to resign their husbands worked were often forced to resign their positions - one job per household – to free up jobs for positions - one job per household – to free up jobs for men - unless these were secretarial or nursing jobs.men - unless these were secretarial or nursing jobs.

African Americans Gain a Voice:African Americans Gain a Voice: re-alignment: switched allegiance to Democratsre-alignment: switched allegiance to Democrats at urging of Eleanor, FDR appointed African Americans at urging of Eleanor, FDR appointed African Americans

to his admin. – usually minor positionsto his admin. – usually minor positions had an informal Black Cabinet to keep him advised had an informal Black Cabinet to keep him advised

about African American issuesabout African American issues leading spokesperson was leading spokesperson was Mary McLeod BethuneMary McLeod Bethune, ,

head of the Negro Affairs Division of the National head of the Negro Affairs Division of the National Youth AdminYouth Admin

Harold Ickes, Sec. of the Interior,Harold Ickes, Sec. of the Interior, worked closely with worked closely with AA’s to improve race relations and passed along their AA’s to improve race relations and passed along their concerns to FDR. concerns to FDR.

He integrated his Dept, appointed several AA’s to key He integrated his Dept, appointed several AA’s to key positions. positions.

Under Ickes, the PWA allocated funds for the Under Ickes, the PWA allocated funds for the construction of hospitals, universities, and housing construction of hospitals, universities, and housing projects, in AA communitiesprojects, in AA communities

PWA building contracts also contained a clause requiring PWA building contracts also contained a clause requiring that the number of AA’s hired be at least equal in that the number of AA’s hired be at least equal in proportion to the number of AA’s in the local population. proportion to the number of AA’s in the local population.

This practice would become a basis for civil rights This practice would become a basis for civil rights legislation in the 60s and 70slegislation in the 60s and 70s

Other New Deal agencies also greatly aided AA’s Other New Deal agencies also greatly aided AA’s during the Depression: the WPA gave jobs to hundreds during the Depression: the WPA gave jobs to hundreds of thousands of AA’s: FERA and other relief agencies of thousands of AA’s: FERA and other relief agencies granted aid to 30% of all AA familiesgranted aid to 30% of all AA families

FDR’s admin exceeded all previous admin’s in the FDR’s admin exceeded all previous admin’s in the number of AA’s that it appointed to govt. positions and number of AA’s that it appointed to govt. positions and in the amount of federal aid that it provided AA’s. in the amount of federal aid that it provided AA’s.

But his personal attitude to equality for AA’s was But his personal attitude to equality for AA’s was equivocal. He failed to take a strong stand on Civil equivocal. He failed to take a strong stand on Civil

Rights issuesRights issues..

Did little to try to eliminate unfair hiring practices and Did little to try to eliminate unfair hiring practices and discriminatory job conditionsdiscriminatory job conditions

Some govt. agencies such as the TVA, often refused to Some govt. agencies such as the TVA, often refused to hire black workers. hire black workers.

Other agencies hired but segregated – CCCOther agencies hired but segregated – CCC

Armed forces were still segregated Armed forces were still segregated

Failed to support a federal anti-lynching law, though he Failed to support a federal anti-lynching law, though he did condemn lynching; failed to support elimination of did condemn lynching; failed to support elimination of poll taxpoll tax

was concerned with retaining the support of Southern was concerned with retaining the support of Southern white Democrats for the New Deal; didn’t want to white Democrats for the New Deal; didn’t want to alienate themalienate them

he preferred slow, cautious change, rather than sudden he preferred slow, cautious change, rather than sudden change, in racial issueschange, in racial issues

Native Americans Gain an Ally;Native Americans Gain an Ally; Native American’s were long subjected to discrimination Native American’s were long subjected to discrimination

and deprivation – ‘the most discriminated against and deprivation – ‘the most discriminated against minority” - Native Am families were the poorest in the minority” - Native Am families were the poorest in the nation.nation.

New Deal agencies and policies provided many Native New Deal agencies and policies provided many Native American’s with jobs and aid. American’s with jobs and aid.

But they were also subjected to intense pressure to But they were also subjected to intense pressure to

assimilate.assimilate.

The most significant New Deal legislation to aid Native The most significant New Deal legislation to aid Native Am’s was the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934, Am’s was the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934, authored by John Collier, the Commissioner of Indian authored by John Collier, the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, who set about reversing previous govt. policyAffairs, who set about reversing previous govt. policy

His goal was to promote Native Am culture and His goal was to promote Native Am culture and preserve tribal ownership of reservation landspreserve tribal ownership of reservation lands

Collier believed in cultural relativism - the idea that Collier believed in cultural relativism - the idea that every culture should be accepted and respected on its every culture should be accepted and respected on its own terms and that no culture was inherently superior to own terms and that no culture was inherently superior to another..another..

The Indian Reorganization ActThe Indian Reorganization Act;; prevented the govt. from seizing unclaimed reservation prevented the govt. from seizing unclaimed reservation

land and selling it offland and selling it off Native Am tribes were given collective control of the Native Am tribes were given collective control of the

land on their reservations and they were to decide how land on their reservations and they were to decide how the land was used and managed.the land was used and managed.

Encouraged Native Am’s to set up their own govt.’s Encouraged Native Am’s to set up their own govt.’s on their reservations – then the Bureau would provide on their reservations – then the Bureau would provide the govt.’s with money to build schools and hospitals, the govt.’s with money to build schools and hospitals, and start businesses and start businesses

Reversal of Dawes Act Reversal of Dawes Act

new measures were of benefit, but Native Am’s they new measures were of benefit, but Native Am’s they continued to live in poor arid desert land, still continued to live in poor arid desert land, still

remained the poorest segment of the populationremained the poorest segment of the population. .

See discussion questions for Chapters 32 and See discussion questions for Chapters 32 and 33 (separate power point)33 (separate power point)