FDR

Definition

Franklin Delano Roosevelt, commonly known as FDR, was the 32nd President of the United States, serving from 1933 to 1945. His leadership during the Great Depression and World War II established him as a pivotal figure in American history, particularly through his implementation of the New Deal, which aimed to provide relief, recovery, and reform to the struggling nation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. FDR was elected to four terms in office, making him the only U.S. president to serve more than two terms before the 22nd Amendment was ratified.
2. His Fireside Chats were a series of radio broadcasts that helped him communicate directly with the American public, instilling confidence during challenging times.
3. The New Deal included significant initiatives like the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the Works Progress Administration (WPA), which created millions of jobs.
4. FDR's leadership style was characterized by his ability to connect with ordinary Americans, using empathy and charisma to foster trust and support for his policies.
5. He played a crucial role in establishing a new political coalition that included labor unions, urban immigrants, and African Americans, transforming the Democratic Party's base.

Review Questions

• How did FDR's approach to leadership during the Great Depression differ from that of his predecessor?
  • FDR's approach was more interventionist compared to Herbert Hoover's reliance on voluntary measures and limited government intervention. Roosevelt believed in taking direct action through government programs to provide relief and stimulate economic recovery. His New Deal initiatives marked a significant shift in government policy, aiming to alleviate suffering through a proactive role in the economy.
• Evaluate the impact of FDR's New Deal on American society and its long-term effects on the role of government.
  • The New Deal transformed American society by expanding the federal government's role in economic and social issues. It laid the groundwork for future government programs aimed at social welfare and economic stability. The establishment of agencies like Social Security also redefined citizens' expectations regarding government responsibility for their well-being, leading to ongoing debates about the size and scope of government.
• Analyze how FDR's foreign policy shifted during his presidency and its implications for U.S. involvement in World War II.
  • Initially, FDR maintained a stance of neutrality while focusing on domestic recovery. However, as global tensions escalated and threats emerged from Axis powers, his foreign policy shifted towards greater intervention. The Lend-Lease Act marked a significant turning point, allowing him to support allies like Britain before officially entering the war after Pearl Harbor. This shift not only demonstrated America's emerging role on the world stage but also laid the groundwork for post-war international relations.

Related terms

The New Deal:

A series of programs and policies established by FDR in response to the Great Depression, aimed at economic recovery and social reform.

Social Security Act:

A landmark piece of legislation passed in 1935 as part of the New Deal, providing financial assistance to the elderly, unemployed, and disabled.

Lend-Lease Act:

A policy enacted in 1941 that allowed the U.S. to supply military aid to foreign nations during World War II, demonstrating FDR's commitment to supporting allies.