The main plan was to build up to 20 dams, supervised by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), aimed at redeveloping the Tennessee Valley while addressing environmental issues.

• Educated farmers in new farming methods and land care was part of the initiative.

• Model farms were established to implement these new ideas, which partially solved problems of drought and dust storms, helping prevent future environmental disasters.

The Need for More Help

• After 2 years of New Deal programs, national income was still low, unemployment remained high, and workers continued to strike due to poor conditions.

• The year 1935 provided a turning point for New Dealers as the elections in November 1934 introduced reform-minded politicians to Congress.

• The Supreme Court had declared some of the first New Deal agencies unconstitutional, prompting Roosevelt to initiate a Second New Deal with the following goals:

• Provide more work relief for the unemployed.

• Support workers in industry and improve their rights.

• Assist the rural poor in acquiring their own land.

• Provide for the elderly during retirement.

The Works Progress Administration (WPA)

• Established in May 1935 under Roosevelt, with Harry Hopkins in charge, who previously organized the Civil Works Administration (CWA).

• The WPA aimed to replicate the CWA’s activity, implementing a wide range of short-term work relief projects.

• Approximately 8 million Americans were employed through WPA programs, showcasing the federal government's commitment to relief efforts.

• The WPA spent $1 billion throughout its existence, aiding poor men and women regardless of race, both urban and rural.

Help for the Poor

• The Second New Deal focused on providing employment for the poor through various work relief projects.

• Agencies such as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the Public Works Administration (PWA) received $4 billion in funding.

• These initiatives, combined with the established WPA, delivered temporary employment for those in need.