Glossary
21st Amendment
A constitutional amendment ratified in 1933 that repealed the 18th Amendment, effectively ending Prohibition. This allowed for the legal sale of alcohol, generating tax revenue and boosting morale.
Example:
The passage of the 21st Amendment was celebrated by many Americans eager to legally purchase alcoholic beverages again.
AAA (Agricultural Adjustment Administration)
A New Deal agency created in 1933 that paid farmers to reduce their crop acreage and livestock production. Its goal was to raise agricultural prices by reducing surpluses, though it was later declared unconstitutional.
Example:
The AAA (Agricultural Adjustment Administration) controversially paid farmers to plow under crops, even as many Americans faced hunger.
Banking Holiday
A temporary closure of all banks across the United States declared by FDR in March 1933. This action was taken to prevent further bank runs and allow for the inspection and stabilization of the banking system.
Example:
During the Banking Holiday, Americans waited anxiously to see if their local banks would be deemed healthy enough to reopen.
Emergency Banking Relief Act
Legislation passed in 1933 that allowed the government to inspect the finances of banks and reopen those that were sound. It aimed to restore public confidence in the banking system.
Example:
The Emergency Banking Relief Act was a crucial first step in stabilizing the nation's financial system after widespread bank failures.
Fireside Chats
A series of evening radio addresses given by President Franklin D. Roosevelt between 1933 and 1944. These informal talks allowed FDR to communicate directly with the American public, explaining his policies and reassuring them during times of crisis.
Example:
Through his Fireside Chats, FDR built a personal connection with millions of Americans, explaining complex economic issues in simple terms.
First New Deal
The initial phase of New Deal programs enacted between 1933 and 1935. It primarily focused on immediate relief and economic recovery through various 'alphabet soup' agencies.
Example:
The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) was a prominent program of the First New Deal, employing young men in conservation projects.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR)
The 32nd President of the United States, serving from 1933 to 1945. He led the country through the Great Depression and World War II, initiating the New Deal programs.
Example:
Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) famously declared, 'The only thing we have to fear is fear itself,' during his first inaugural address.
New Deal
A series of programs and reforms enacted in the United States between 1933 and 1939 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It aimed to combat the Great Depression's effects by providing relief, recovery, and reform.
Example:
The New Deal fundamentally expanded the role of the federal government in American life, leading to programs like Social Security.
Recovery
One of the three main goals of the New Deal, aimed at stimulating the economy and getting people back to work. This involved initiatives to boost industrial and agricultural output.
Example:
The Public Works Administration (PWA) aimed for economic Recovery by funding large-scale infrastructure projects that created jobs.
Reform
One of the three main goals of the New Deal, focused on making systemic changes to prevent future economic crises. This included regulations for banking, stock markets, and social welfare programs.
Example:
The creation of the Social Security system was a major Reform designed to provide a safety net for the elderly and unemployed.
Relief
One of the three main goals of the New Deal, focusing on providing immediate aid to those suffering from the Great Depression. This included direct assistance like food, shelter, and temporary employment.
Example:
Programs providing direct food assistance to impoverished families were a key component of the New Deal's Relief efforts.
Second New Deal
A wave of New Deal programs launched from 1935 onwards, shifting focus towards long-term reform and social justice. Key initiatives included the Social Security Act and the Wagner Act.
Example:
The establishment of Social Security marked a significant shift towards the more enduring social welfare policies of the Second New Deal.