Franklin D. Roosevelt

Definition

Franklin D. Roosevelt, often referred to as FDR, was the 32nd President of the United States, serving from 1933 until his death in 1945. He is best known for his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II, implementing a series of innovative programs and reforms known as the New Deal to address the economic crisis and promote recovery.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. FDR was elected president four times, making him the only U.S. president to serve more than two terms before the 22nd Amendment was ratified in 1951.
2. The New Deal included key agencies such as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the Social Security Administration (SSA), which were established to provide jobs and social welfare.
3. FDR's fireside chats were a series of radio broadcasts where he communicated directly with the American public to explain his policies and instill confidence during difficult times.
4. Under Roosevelt's leadership, the U.S. transitioned from isolationism to active involvement in World War II after the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941.
5. Roosevelt's administration laid the groundwork for modern welfare programs and a more active role for the federal government in economic affairs.

Review Questions

• How did Franklin D. Roosevelt's policies directly address the causes of the Great Depression?
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt's policies sought to combat the Great Depression by implementing the New Deal, which included various programs designed to provide immediate relief to those suffering economically. The establishment of agencies like the Public Works Administration (PWA) aimed to create jobs and stimulate economic activity through infrastructure projects. Additionally, reforms such as the Glass-Steagall Act were introduced to stabilize the banking system, thereby addressing some underlying issues that contributed to the economic collapse.
• Evaluate how Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal programs transformed American society and its political landscape.
  • The New Deal fundamentally transformed American society by expanding the role of the federal government in everyday life through social welfare programs, job creation initiatives, and regulatory reforms. It shifted public expectations regarding government responsibility for economic stability and individual well-being. This transformation led to a realignment in political affiliations, with many working-class Americans and minorities supporting the Democratic Party due to their alignment with FDR’s policies aimed at promoting social justice and economic equity.
• Analyze how Franklin D. Roosevelt's leadership during World War II shaped America's role on the global stage.
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt's leadership during World War II significantly reshaped America's global role by transitioning from isolationism to becoming a leading world power. His decision to support Allies through programs like Lend-Lease before formally entering the war showcased a commitment to collective security and international cooperation. After Pearl Harbor, FDR mobilized American industry and resources for war efforts while advocating for post-war plans that promoted peace and stability, such as his role in establishing the United Nations, thus redefining U.S. foreign policy for decades to come.

Related terms

New Deal:

A series of programs and reforms introduced by Franklin D. Roosevelt aimed at providing relief for the unemployed, recovering the economy, and reforming the financial system.

Great Depression:

A severe worldwide economic downturn that began in 1929 and lasted through the late 1930s, marked by high unemployment and significant declines in industrial production.

Dust Bowl:

A period of severe dust storms in the 1930s that greatly damaged the ecology and agriculture of the American and Canadian prairies, contributing to economic hardship during the Great Depression.