American History Herbert Hoover_ annual message (1930)_ Documents - Political, Government & Court Documents

Introduction

  • Herbert Hoover's 1930 Annual Message to Congress presented on December 2, 1930.

  • Discusses the state of the Union, economic conditions, agriculture, finance, and foreign relations.

Economic Situation

  • Economic depression experienced globally; attributed to:

    • Domestic overspeculation and economic imbalances.

    • Worldwide overproduction of commodities (e.g., wheat, rubber, copper).

  • Impact on U.S. indicated by key performance metrics:

    • Department-store sales: 93% of 1928 levels.

    • Manufacturing production: 80% of 1928 levels.

    • Employment levels: 84% of 1928.

  • Encouragement through stabilization in price levels and upcoming recovery signs.

  • Importance of individual self-reliance and community support for economic recovery.

Government Cooperation and Action

  • Initiatives for wage stabilization and employment distribution.

  • Increased construction spending in public works to stimulate job creation:

    • Planned expenditures for construction surpassed previous years.

  • Formation of committees at local levels to assist with employment and relief.

Agriculture

  • Agriculture severely impacted by depression and droughts:

    • Prices of farm produce depressed to 80% of 1928 levels.

    • Recommendations for federal aid to support agricultural production.

  • Establishment of national committees to address agricultural distress.

Government Finance

  • Initial surplus estimates influenced by unexpected depressions:

    • Tax receipts significantly down, expenditures from increased federal construction.

  • Urged Congress to avoid increasing taxes while promoting job recovery.

National Defense

  • Emphasis on maintaining military efficiency.

  • Deferred actions in military construction due to economic conditions.

Proposed Legislation

  • Suggested inquiries into railways consolidation and antitrust laws effectiveness.

    • Need for examination of current economic laws based on changing business environments.

Immigration Policies

  • Calls for revision and stricter control over immigration to prevent public charge.

  • Highlighted decrease in visas issued due to economic conditions.

Social Services and Health

  • Further federal aid for public health, particularly for children and communicable diseases.

Foreign Relations

  • Cordial international relations maintained; highlights include the London naval treaty and responses to global unrest.

  • Support for protecting U.S. interests abroad without conflict.

Conclusion

  • Urged recognition of the need for legislative preparation to address emerging issues and stabilize economic conditions post-depression.