Study Notes on the New Deal Era

A New Deal

  • Key Acronyms:
    • FDIC: Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
    • CCC: Civilian Conservation Corps
    • NRA: National Recovery Administration
    • WPA: Works Progress Administration
    • AAA: Agricultural Adjustment Administration
    • TVA: Tennessee Valley Authority

Key Figures

  • Huey Long: Prominent political figure and critic of the New Deal, known for advocating for wealth redistribution.
  • Social Security Act: Significant legislation providing financial assistance to retirees and the unemployed, aimed at establishing a safety net for American citizens.
  • John L. Lewis: Labor leader who played a crucial role in the development of labor rights and the formation of the CIO (Congress of Industrial Organizations).

Political Climate of 1932

  • Campaign Slogan: "Happy days are here again"
  • Importance of the 1932 Election: Key moment leading to the election of Franklin D. Roosevelt and the implementation of the New Deal.
  • Media Influence: CBS (Columbia Broadcasting System) played a role in disseminating Roosevelt’s campaign messages.

The 100 Days

  • Focus: Immediate actions taken by Roosevelt during his first 100 days in office in early 1933.
  • Key Objectives:
    • Saving banks from collapse: Initiatives to restore public confidence in the banking system.
    • Industrial recovery: Implementing policies to stimulate industrial growth and job creation.
    • NRA participation: Introduction of the National Recovery Administration, promoting fair business practices and labor rights.
    • Agricultural Planning through the AAA for improving farm prices and stabilizing the agricultural market.

Second New Deal

  • Timeline: Encompasses the period of 1935-1936.
  • Rise of Protest: Increased opposition and protests against New Deal policies from various groups.
  • The Second 100 Days: Marked by further legislative efforts to address ongoing economic issues.
  • Election of 1936: Important electoral event reflecting public opinion on the New Deal efforts.

Demographic Impact of the New Deal

  • A. Western Water: Projects in the West focused on water management and infrastructure.
  • B. African-Americans and Mexicans: Examination of how New Deal policies affected these minority groups and their involvement in labor.
  • C. Native Americans: Addressing issues and policies directly affecting Native American communities during this period.
  • D. A New Deal for Women: The implications of New Deal programs on women's labor and rights.
  • E. The Rise of Labor: The increasing strength and organization of labor unions during the New Deal era.

The Legacy of the New Deal

  • Overview of the long-term effects and historical significance of New Deal programs and policies, shaping modern American governance and societal norms.