Alphabet Soup Agencies to know

What did the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) provide jobs for?

Young men to plant trees, build bridges and parks, and set up flood control projects.

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

To build dams to provide cheap electrical power to seven southern states and set up schools and health centers.

What did the Federal Emergency Relief Act (FERA) do?

Provided relief to unemployed and needy people, and was one of FDR’s earliest programs.

What was the Emergency Banking Relief Act (EBRA) associated with?

The banking holiday, as it closed banks until the government ensured they had enough money to cover deposits.

What was the goal of the Agricultural Adjustment Administration (AAA)?

To pay farmers not to grow certain crops.

What did the National Industrial Recovery Act (NIRA) require from industries?

To set up codes for production, wages, prices, and working conditions.

What was the National Recovery Administration (NRA) known for?

Enforcing the codes established by the NIRA, recognized by its symbol, the Blue Eagle.

What types of projects did the Public Works Administration (PWA) undertake?

Built ports, schools, and aircraft carriers.

What is the purpose of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)?

To insure savings accounts in banks approved by the government.

What was the role of the Rural Electrification Administration (REA)?

To loan money to extend electrical power in rural areas.

What did the Works Progress Administration (WPA) do?

Employed men and women to build hospitals, schools, parks, and airports, and to work as artists, writers, and musicians.

What did the Social Security Act (SSA) establish?

A system of pensions for the elderly, the unemployed, dependent children, and people with disabilities.

What was the purpose of the Reconstruction Finance Corporation (RFC)?

Hoover’s program that attempted to loan money to railroads, banks, and insurance companies.