Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States, profoundly shaped American policy through the New Deal, addressing the Great Depression with groundbreaking economic and social reforms. His initiatives, including the CCC, PWA, and Social Security Act, redefined the government's role in American life and set a precedent for future welfare policies. Roosevelt's leadership extended to World War II and his Good Neighbor Policy, which aimed to foster better relations with Latin America.
Show More
FDR was born into a prominent family and received a private education
Inspiration from Theodore Roosevelt
FDR's fifth cousin, President Theodore Roosevelt, inspired him to enter politics
Progressive Causes and Government Intervention
FDR championed progressive causes and believed in government intervention in the economy
Despite facing setbacks, FDR remained determined in his political ambitions
FDR implemented the New Deal to provide economic relief, recovery, and reform during the Great Depression
Emergency Banking Relief Act
This act stabilized the banking system during the Great Depression
Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and Public Works Administration (PWA)
These agencies provided employment and stimulated the economy through public works projects
Social Security Act and Works Progress Administration (WPA)
These programs provided social welfare benefits and created millions of jobs
The New Deal fundamentally changed the relationship between the government and its citizens, establishing federal responsibility for the welfare of the people
The New Deal faced legal challenges, including several pieces of legislation being struck down as unconstitutional by the Supreme Court
FDR's proposal to appoint additional Supreme Court justices in order to secure a more favorable judicial environment for his reforms was met with criticism and ultimately failed
The Supreme Court began to rule in favor of New Deal legislation, leading to a shift in their decisions known as "the switch in time that saved nine."
FDR's policy aimed to improve relations with Latin American countries and promote mutual respect and non-interference in domestic affairs
The Good Neighbor Policy represented a significant shift from previous U.S. interventions in Latin America
FDR's foreign policy aimed to counter the growing influence of totalitarian regimes in Europe and Asia
00
FDR's Birth and Family Background
Born Jan 30, 1882, into a prominent NY family.
01
FDR's Education
Educated at Groton, Harvard; studied history, government, economics.
02
FDR's Role Before Presidency
NY State Senator, Assistant Secretary of the Navy under Wilson.
