New Deal & Great Depression

Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR)

The 32nd President of the United States known for his charismatic leadership and New Deal policies during the Great Depression.

New Deal

A series of federal programs and policies introduced by FDR aimed at relief, recovery, and reform during the Great Depression.

Brain Trust

A group of intellectuals and experts who advised FDR during his campaign and early presidency, shaping New Deal policies.

Hundred Days

The first 100 days of FDR’s presidency in 1933, marked by significant legislation to combat the Great Depression.

The R’s

Refers to the three key goals of the New Deal: Relief, Recovery, and Reform.

Glass-Steagall Banking Reform Act

A 1933 law separating commercial and investment banking to protect depositors and create the FDIC.

Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC)

A New Deal program providing employment for young men in public works related to conservation.

Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA)

A New Deal law aimed at boosting farm prices by paying farmers to reduce crop production.

Huey Long

A populist leader who challenged FDR, advocating for wealth redistribution through the 'Share Our Wealth' program.

Dr. Francis Townsend

A physician whose Townsend Plan proposed a pension for all Americans over 60, influencing Social Security.

Works Progress Administration (WPA)

A New Deal agency that employed millions in public works projects to combat unemployment.

Beer Act

A 1933 law legalizing beer and wine with 3.2% alcohol, marking a step toward ending Prohibition.

Public Works Administration (PWA)

A New Deal agency that funded large-scale infrastructure projects to stimulate the economy.

Reciprocal Trade Agreements

Agreements that reduced tariffs between the U.S. and other nations to promote international trade.

National Recovery Administration (NRA)

A New Deal agency established to stimulate industrial recovery through fair competition codes.

Wagner Act

A 1935 law protecting workers’ rights to organize and engage in collective bargaining.

Dust Bowl

A period of severe dust storms in the 1930s, caused by drought and poor farming practices.

Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)

A New Deal initiative aimed at modernizing the Tennessee Valley through flood control and economic development.

Social Security Act

A 1935 law establishing pensions for the elderly and unemployment insurance.

Fair Labor Standards Act

A 1938 law establishing minimum wage, maximum hours, and banning child labor.

Congress of Industrial Workers

A labor union organizing workers in major industrial sectors, key to the growth of organized labor.

Court Packing Scandal

A 1937 controversy where FDR proposed expanding the Supreme Court to add justices supporting his New Deal.

Keynesianism

Economic theory advocating government intervention, particularly deficit spending, to stimulate demand.