Franklin D. Roosevelt

Definition

Franklin D. Roosevelt was the 32nd President of the United States, serving from 1933 to 1945, and is best known for leading the country through the Great Depression and World War II. His administration implemented numerous programs aimed at economic recovery and reform, including the New Deal, which transformed the relationship between the federal government and American citizens. Roosevelt's influence extended to higher education through initiatives like the G.I. Bill, which democratized access to college for returning veterans and significantly expanded the American middle class.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Roosevelt was elected to four terms as president, the only U.S. president to serve more than two terms, indicating his significant popularity during times of crisis.
2. The G.I. Bill, one of Roosevelt's key legislative achievements, allowed millions of veterans to attend college, fundamentally changing American higher education.
3. Roosevelt's New Deal programs included Social Security and unemployment insurance, which laid the groundwork for modern social safety nets.
4. His administration expanded federal involvement in education by promoting vocational training and funding for public schools.
5. Roosevelt’s leadership during World War II not only focused on military strategy but also on domestic policies that supported war efforts, including educational programs for servicemen.

Review Questions

• How did Franklin D. Roosevelt's policies shape the landscape of higher education in America?
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt's policies, particularly through the implementation of the G.I. Bill, transformed higher education by making it accessible to millions of returning veterans. This legislation provided financial support for college tuition, housing, and books, which encouraged a surge in enrollment and allowed many individuals who may not have had the opportunity to pursue higher education before. The result was a more educated workforce that contributed to post-war economic growth and social mobility.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of the G.I. Bill on American society and higher education.
  • The G.I. Bill had profound long-term impacts on American society by significantly increasing the number of college-educated individuals in the workforce and contributing to the growth of the American middle class. It facilitated access to higher education for diverse populations, fostering greater social mobility and economic opportunities for veterans and their families. Additionally, it changed public perceptions of education as a valuable asset for personal and societal advancement.
• Analyze how Franklin D. Roosevelt's approach to economic recovery influenced educational reforms during his presidency.
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt’s approach to economic recovery emphasized government intervention and support in various sectors, including education. His administration recognized that investing in human capital was essential for national recovery. Educational reforms were influenced by initiatives like vocational training programs aimed at equipping citizens with skills necessary for new job markets created during the New Deal era. This approach not only addressed immediate economic needs but also laid a foundation for a more skilled workforce, reflecting a shift in how education was viewed as integral to economic and social stability.

Related terms

New Deal: A series of programs and policies implemented by Roosevelt to combat the effects of the Great Depression, focusing on relief, recovery, and reform.

G.I. Bill:

Legislation passed in 1944 that provided various benefits to returning World War II veterans, including financial assistance for education.

Economic Security: A principle promoted during Roosevelt's presidency, aimed at ensuring individuals have stable income and access to essential services, including education.