Analyze the responses of Franklin D. Roosevelts administration to the problems of the
Great Depression. How effective were these responses? How did they change the role of
the federal government?
Roosevelts first task upon taking office was to alleviate the panic that was threatening to
create chaos in the financial system. He did so in part by force of personality and in part by
constructing very rapidly an ambitious and diverse program of legislation.
Much of Roosevelts success was a result of his cheerful personality. Beginning with his
inaugural address- in which he assured the American people that “the only thing we have
to fear is fear itself”- he projected an infectious optimism that helped alleviate the growing
despair.
With the use of his “brain trusts,” FDR was able to draw up a series of significant reforms.
Roosevelt was able to expand the size and power of the federal government. Through
Social security, minimum wage, banking regulation, anti-monopoly regulation, farm
support, and support for public works, Roosevelt redefined the relationship between the
government and the people. [Document E] The government was now involved in every
aspect of peoples lives, and more people would turn to the federal government for help.
The New Deal restored peoples faith in themselves and in the government.
FDRs New Deal Legislation received opposition. People were accused of being socialists
and communists. People believed that it was against the stimulation of business, which
ultimately would create unemployment. In a letter to Senator Robert Wagner, it is stated
that this new legislation will end in “disaster.” [Document B]. Specifically, the NIRA, the
