The New Deal Flashcards
(20 cards)
What was FDR’s famous quote and what did it mean?
‘Among US citizens, there should be no forgotten men and no forgotten races.’ - Meaning he wanted to create an inclusive USA where all, especially those who were left behind, were protected by
What was the public’s attitude toward Hoover before FDR?
Americans had absolutely no confidence in Hoover’s ability to end The Great Depression.
Why was FDR’s proposed government intervention considered radical?
It marked a major break from the traditional limited role of government in citizens’ lives.
What is significant about FDR’s first 100 days in office?
He passed 15 major bills - the most productive legislative period of any president up to that time.
What were alphabet agencies?
Programs like the AAA, CCC, and WPA designed to help farmers, workers, and businesses.
What was the first priority of the New Deal?
Revive the banking system to restore public confidence.
How did FDR stabilise the banking system?
Imposed stricter regulations, introduced federal oversight, and insured deposit to protect savings
What was FERA and what did it do?
Federal emergency relief administration - provided funds to help Americans afford rent, food, fuel, and clothes.
What did AAA aim to do?
Subsidised farmers and educate them in sustainable farming practices.
Why was unemployment still a major issue after early New Deal efforts?
Initial programs provided aid but didn’t create enough jobs, so more targeted employment programs were needed.
What was the CCC and what did it do?
Civilian conservation corps - employed 250,000+ young men in conservation projects, food, housing, and education
What did WPA and TVA do?
Built roads, bridges, dams (TVA in the South); WPA also funded the arts/theatre projects and reduced unemployment significantly.
What labour reforms came from the New Deal?
Abolished child labour, guaranteed collective bargaining, set minimum wage, and offered disability/unemployment benefits.
What was the SSA and what did it offer?
Social Security Act -introduced pensions for the elderly and benefits for the unemployed and disabled.
How did the New Deal affect black Americans in northern cities like Chicago?
They received jobs, education, housing (though segregated), and over a million learned to read through programs.
What was the New Deal’s impact on Black Americans in the South?
Less positive - Southern Democrats blocked reforms for Black workers and preserved segregation.
How were Black workers excluded from Labour protections?
New laws excluded domestic servants and agricultural workers - Jobs largely held by the Black population.
Why was the New Deal sometimes called the ‘Raw Deal’ by Black Americans?
Because it benefits disproportionately favoured White Americans and often excluded Black Citizens.
Did the New Deal end unemployment?
No - unemployment never dropped below 14%, and full recovery only came with WW1 mobilisation.
What lasting impact did the New Deal have on Black and minority political activism?
Empowered them to challenge racist leadership and laid the foundation for the civil rights movement
