History test- Roaring 20's/great depression/new deal

What was the key event that marked the beginning of the Great Depression in 1929?

The stock market crash on October 29, 1929, known as Black Tuesday.

What was the unemployment rate by the lowest point of the Great Depression?

Nearly one in four Americans who wanted a job could not find one.

How did overproduction in the 1920s contribute to the Great Depression?

High demand for consumer goods led to excessive production, while underconsumption due to income disparity resulted in unsold products.

What was the Smoot-Hawley Tariff, and what effect did it have?

It was the highest tariff in American history (20%) that worsened international trade, aiming to protect American farmers and industries, contributing to the worsening of the Great Depression.

Which U.S. president was in office at the onset of the Great Depression?

Herbert Hoover.

What economic belief guided Herbert Hoover's response to the Depression?

The principle of 'Rugged Individualism,' believing that prosperity would return through voluntary efforts rather than government intervention.

What major program did Franklin D. Roosevelt implement to combat the Great Depression?

The New Deal.

What were the two key agencies established during the New Deal to assist with economic recovery?

The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the Agricultural Adjustment Administration (AAA).

What was a significant consequence of the Dust Bowl during the Great Depression?

It forced many families to migrate west to California in search of work and better living conditions.

What high-profile event in 1932 illustrated public frustration with the government’s response to the Great Depression?

The Bonus Army march, where WWI veterans protested for their bonus payments.

How did Roosevelt's approach differ from Hoover's in handling the Great Depression?

Roosevelt implemented direct government intervention through the New Deal, while Hoover promoted voluntary measures.

What was one of the most significant pieces of legislation established to protect depositors in banks after the Great Depression?

The Glass-Steagall Banking Act, which created the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).

What was the unemployment rate by the end of FDR's first term in office?

Although the economic conditions improved, unemployment still remained significantly high at around 14%.

What year saw the passing of the Social Security Act, which aimed to provide assistance to the elderly and unemployed?

1935.

What was one of the cultural impacts of the Great Depression seen through literature and film?

Works like John Steinbeck's 'The Grapes of Wrath' highlighted the struggles and migrations caused by the Depression.

What were 'Hoovervilles'?

Shantytowns set up by homeless Americans during the Great Depression, named derisively after President Hoover.

How did the Great Depression affect women in the workforce?

Women increasingly sought work; however, they often faced discrimination, being less likely to be hired compared to men.

What major international economic trend occurred as a consequence of the Great Depression?

A significant drop in international trade, with U.S. exports falling by 78% from 1929 to 1932.

Who is often credited with the phrase 'New Deal'?

Franklin D. Roosevelt, during his acceptance speech as the Democratic presidential nominee in 1932.

What did the New Deal prioritize in its approach to solving the economic crisis?

Immediate relief for the unemployed, recovery of the economy, and reform of the financial system.

What was one major criticism of the New Deal programs regarding their effectiveness?

While they provided relief, many programs often favored larger landowners, leaving farmers and lower-income workers marginalized.

Which event is cited as a major turning point leading to the decline of Roosevelt's New Deal initiatives?

The court-packing scheme in 1937, which aimed to expand the Supreme Court to include more justices favorable to New Deal policies.

How did the Great Depression contribute to changes in American government outlook?

It established a stronger view of the federal government as a key player in economic stability and social welfare.

What was the primary goal of the New Deal programs?

To provide relief, recovery, and reform to mitigate the impacts of the Great Depression.

How did the New Deal impact the relationship between the American public and the federal government?

It fostered a greater expectation of government responsibility for economic security and welfare.

What role did the Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) play during the Great Depression?

FERA provided immediate relief by giving federal funds to states for food and other necessities.

What impact did the New Deal have on labor unions?

The New Deal led to the growth and increased influence of labor unions, particularly through the Wagner Act.

What was the purpose of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)?

To provide navigation, flood control, electricity generation, and economic development in the Tennessee Valley region.

What social and cultural changes arose from the experiences of the Great Depression?

Increased community solidarity, mutual aid, and new forms of art and literature reflecting the struggles of the time.

How did the Great Depression affect urban and rural areas differently?

Urban areas faced high unemployment and social dislocation, while rural areas dealt with agricultural collapse and tenant farming issues.

What was the significance of the Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA)?

It aimed to boost agricultural prices by reducing surpluses through crop reduction and limiting production.

What were bank runs, and how did they relate to the Great Depression?

Bank runs occurred when large numbers of customers withdrew deposits simultaneously, reflecting panic and leading to bank failures.

What innovative methods did FDR use to communicate with the public?

FDR utilized

fireside chats

radio addresses to directly communicate his policies and reassure the public during trying times.

How did the Great Depression affect education in America?

Many schools faced funding cuts, leading to teacher layoffs and reduced services.

What were some of the long-term reforms established as a result of the New Deal?

Establishment of Social Security, labor rights, and regulatory frameworks for banks and stock markets.

How did the Great Depression influence future economic policies in the U.S?

It led to a more active role of the federal government in regulating the economy to prevent future crises.

What role did Hollywood play during the Great Depression?

Hollywood provided escapism through films, often portraying stories of struggle, hope, and resilience.

What was the impact of the Dust Bowl on agriculture in the U.S?

It devastated farmland in the Great Plains, leading to severe crop failures and economic hardship for farmers.

How did the Great Depression alter migration patterns in the U.S?

Many left the Dust Bowl-affected areas in search of work in cities or other states, notably California.

What initiatives were created to support arts and culture during the New Deal?

Programs like the Works Progress Administration (WPA) funded artists, writers, and musicians to promote culture.

What were the Wagner Act's provisions, and what did it achieve?

The Wagner Act, passed in 1935, established the right of workers to form unions and engage in collective bargaining. It aimed to improve labor conditions and protect employees from unfair labor practices.

What was the intent behind Franklin D. Roosevelt's initial New Deal programs

Aimed to provide relief for the unemployed, recovery of the economy, and reform of the financial system to prevent future depressions.

Federal budget was balanced by

cutting spending before later adopting more radical measures to combat the economic crisis.

What was the significance of the 1936 election in relation to the New Deal?

FDR won a landslide victory, which indicated strong public support for his New Deal policies.

How did women participate in the workforce during the Great Depression?

Women increasingly sought jobs, often in fields deemed suitable for them, but faced workplace discrimination.

What were the experiences of African Americans during the Great Depression?

They faced heightened unemployment and discrimination but also opportunities through New Deal programs focused on racial equity.

What bureaucratic reforms resulted from the New Deal?

Creation of numerous federal agencies aimed at stability and recovery of economic sectors.

In what ways did the New Deal help in environmental conservation?

Programs such as the CCC promoted reforestation and conservation of natural resources.

What emergency measures were put in place to address bank failures during the Great Depression?

The Emergency Banking Act allowed only solvent banks to reopen, aiming to restore public confidence.

How did the New Deal influence contemporary politics?

It established precedents for federal responsibility in welfare and economic support that continue today.

What was the Dust Bowl's effect on the Great Migration?

It intensified the movement of families westward, particularly to California, seeking agricultural work.

How did Americans express their frustrations during the Great Depression?

Protests, literature, and art emerged reflecting their struggles, including works that critiqued government inaction.

What new governmental roles were established by the New Deal?

It expanded the federal government’s role in directly assisting individuals and regulating the economy.

How did international relations shift due to the Great Depression?

Economic hardships led to protectionist policies worldwide, which hindered global trade and cooperation.

What was a common sentiment among Americans regarding the government’s response to the Depression?

There was severe dissatisfaction and distrust in government efficiency and compassion.

What was the impact of the Civil Works Administration (CWA)?

It created job opportunities through public works projects, providing much-needed employment.

What type of infrastructure projects were commonly funded by the New Deal?

Roads, schools, and bridges were typically funded to stimulate the economy and improve public services.

How did entertainment reflect the struggles of the Great Depression?

Films and radio programs often dealt with themes of survival, resilience, and social issues.

What was the impact of Social Security on American society?

It established safety nets for the elderly and unemployed, shaping future welfare systems.

What role did journalism play during the Great Depression?

Investigative journalism shed light on poverty's severity and called for government action.

How did the Great Depression alter consumer behavior?

Many people adopted frugality and a focus on essentials, leading to a shift in market demands.

What was the lasting legacy of the New Deal?

It reshaped the American economic landscape and public expectations of government involvement in welfare.

What issues did the New Deal ignore that led to future social movements?

It often marginalized civil rights issues, laying groundwork for later activism in the 1960s.

How did the Great Depression affect capital markets?

There was a dramatic fall in stock prices, leading to an investor crisis and loss of confidence.

What was the significance of the Fair Labor Standards Act?

It established minimum wage, overtime pay, and restricted child labor.

How did public perceptions of the presidency change during the New Deal?

The presidency became viewed as a direct provider of economic support and leadership.

What was a significant impact of the New Deal on farmer cooperatives?

It promoted the establishment of cooperatives to help farmers obtain better prices for their goods.

In terms of social policy, what did the New Deal emphasize?

A focus on equality of opportunity and social justice in relief efforts.

What did the RFC aim to achieve during the Great Depression?

The Reconstruction Finance Corporation aimed to provide financial support for banks and businesses to prevent liquidation.

What demographic changes were influenced by the Great Depression?

Population shifts occurred as families relocated in hopes of finding employment, often resulting in more diverse areas.

What was the role of the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) established during the New Deal?

To facilitate home financing through insurance for loans, helping to stabilize the housing market.

What was the significance of the National Industrial Recovery Act (NIRA)?

NIRA sought to establish fair business practices and wages while stimulating the economy.

What was FDR’s stance toward imperialism and isolationism in foreign policy due to the Great Depression?

His policies pragmatically balanced between addressing domestic economic concerns and limited international commitments.

How did community response to the Great Depression influence local governance?

Local communities often organized to assist the unemployed, influencing local policy and governance structures.

What ongoing struggles can be attributed to the social and economic conditions created by the Great Depression?

Widespread poverty, mental health issues, and socio-economic disparities that still resonate in American society.

What agency was responsible for creating jobs and promoting art and culture during the New Deal?

The Works Progress Administration (WPA) targeted the unemployed, funding various artistic projects.

What were some opposition arguments against the New Deal and FDR's policies?

Critics argued that the New Deal expanded government control too much, favored big business, and failed to address racial inequalities.

What were the primary causes of the Great Depression?

The stock market crash of 1929, post-WWI economic adjustments, banking failures, and agricultural collapse due to drought and overproduction.

How did World War I contribute to the Great Depression?

WWI led to overproduction in agriculture, a reliance on wartime economies, and a subsequent reduction in demand when soldiers returned home.

What banking issues contributed to the onset of the Great Depression?

Bank failures occurred due to lack of depositor confidence, leading to bank runs and a significant drop in available credit.

What were some specific issues faced by farmers that contributed to the Great Depression?

Falling crop prices, increased debt, and environmental disasters like the Dust Bowl significantly impacted farmers' livelihoods.

What were some domestic policies introduced during FDR's administration?

Policies included Social Security, the establishment of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and financial reforms through the Banking Act.

What were the differences in responsibilities between the federal government and state governments during the New Deal?

The federal government took a more active role in economic recovery, while states focused on local needs, although often under federal guidelines.

How did the public react to the government's increased control over the economy?

Reactions were mixed; some welcomed the intervention for immediate relief, while others expressed concerns about governmental overreach.

What were the key differences between Hoover's and FDR's reactions to the Great Depression?

Hoover favored limited government intervention and voluntary efforts, while FDR supported direct government action and comprehensive programs.

How did the role of the federal government evolve during the New Deal?

The federal government expanded its role as a provider of direct aid and regulator of the economy, reshaping expectations of governmental responsibility.

What challenges did FDR face in implementing his New Deal plans?

Challenges included opposition from Congress, the Supreme Court (which struck down several programs), and factions within his own party.

What was the overall success of the New Deal?

The New Deal made significant strides in economic recovery, provided relief for millions, and established a social safety net, but recovery was incomplete as unemployment remained high.