Study GuideU.S. History II–Depression and the New Deal1. Roosevelt and the New DealIn1933, theTwentieth Amendmentchanged the presidential inauguration date from March 4 toJanuary 20. Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) became the last president elected under the old system.During the four months between his election and inauguration, theGreat Depression worseneddramatically. Industrial production hit record lows, millions lost jobs, and banks were failing so fastthat nearly all were closed by the time he took office.FDR brought in a group of experts called theBrain Trust, created a diverse cabinet (including the firstfemale cabinet member,Frances Perkins, Secretary of Labor), and inspired Americans with hisfireside chats—radio addresses that encouraged hope and confidence.1.1The Hundred DaysTheHundred Days(March–June 1933) refers to FDR’sfirst flurry of legislationaimed at tacklingthe economic crisis and jump-starting recovery.•Banking Reforms:oAfour-day bank holidayclosed all banks to prevent further collapses.oTheEmergency Banking Reform Actallowed only financially sound banks toreopen.oTheGlass-Steagall Actcreated theFDIC, which insured deposits up to $5,000,restoring public trust in banks.•Job Programs:oTheCivilian Conservation Corps (CCC)gave work to young men (ages 18–25) innational parks, road construction, flood control, and reforestation.oTheFederal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA), led by Harry Hopkins,provided money to states for direct relief and public works projects.•Regional Planning and Public Power:oFDR supported public power projects, inspired by his experience in New York.Preview Mode
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