New Deal Programs, Agencies, and Critics: Great Depression History

What was the Federal Emergency Relief Act (FERA)?

A 1933 law that provided federal money to state and local governments for direct relief to unemployed and impoverished Americans.

What was the significance of FERA during the Great Depression?

It helped people afford basic necessities and demonstrated the federal government's responsibility for citizens' economic welfare.

What were the four categories of banks established by the Emergency Banking Act of 1933?

1. Financially sound banks that could reopen immediately. 2. Banks needing financial assistance before reopening. 3. Banks needing reorganization. 4. Insolvent banks that could not reopen.

How did the Emergency Banking Act restore public confidence?

By inspecting banks and categorizing them, it prevented mass withdrawals and stabilized the banking system.

What was the Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA)?

A 1933 New Deal program that paid farmers to reduce production of basic agricultural products.

What was the impact of the AAA on crop prices?

It reduced agricultural surpluses, increased crop prices, and helped farmers recover financially.

What was the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC)?

A New Deal program established in 1933 that employed young men for environmental conservation projects.

What types of projects did the CCC undertake?

Planting trees, building parks, preventing soil erosion, and improving national forests.

What was the Works Progress Administration (WPA)?

A New Deal agency established in 1935 that provided jobs through government-funded public works projects.

What were some examples of WPA projects?

Building roads, bridges, schools, and supporting artists and musicians.

Who was Frances Perkins?

The first woman to serve as a U.S. Cabinet secretary, serving as Secretary of Labor under FDR.

What were Frances Perkins' contributions to the New Deal?

She developed labor and social welfare policies, advocated for workers' rights, and helped establish Social Security.

What is the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB)?

A federal agency established under the Wagner Act of 1935 to protect workers' rights to organize and bargain collectively.

What role did the NLRB play in labor relations?

It protected workers from unfair labor practices and strengthened labor unions.

Who was Father Charles Coughlin?

A Catholic priest and radio broadcaster who criticized banks and Roosevelt's policies during the Great Depression.

What was the significance of Father Coughlin's broadcasts?

He gained a large audience and demonstrated public frustration with the economic establishment.

What was the Townsend Plan proposed by Francis Townsend?

A plan calling for the government to provide monthly pensions of $200 to older Americans.

How did the Townsend Plan influence Social Security?

It increased pressure on the federal government to provide retirement assistance and helped build support for Social Security.