CONNECTION #3: Review the Hexagonal Thinking: The Great Depression diagram in Step 1 of this question and locate the graphic pointing to "Connection #3". For this group of connected hexagons, you are describing the connection between Unemployment, Relief Recovery and Reform & _______________________. Explain the Connection: Describe how each concept relates to the others. Think about: Does one event lead to or cause another? Are they part of the same event or time period? Do they share something in common, like similar ideas or themes?

Question

Choices: Herbert Hoover, Social Security Act, First New Deal

Answer 1

For Connection #3, the concepts to be connected are Unemployment, Relief Recovery and Reform, and the Social Security Act.

Explanation of the Connection:

1. Unemployment: The Great Depression led to unprecedented levels of unemployment, with millions of Americans losing their jobs and livelihoods. This dire economic situation created a pressing need for government intervention to provide immediate relief to those suffering the effects of unemployment.

2. Relief Recovery and Reform: These three objectives became the cornerstone of the New Deal programs initiated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to address the economic crisis. "Relief" aimed to provide immediate support to individuals and families affected by unemployment. "Recovery" focused on restoring the economy to its prior state, while "Reform" intended to prevent similar economic disasters in the future through changes in policy and governance.

3. Social Security Act: Passed in 1935, the Social Security Act is a key piece of legislation that directly relates to all three concepts. It was part of the reform efforts under the New Deal aimed at ensuring workers had some level of economic security. By establishing a system of old-age benefits, unemployment insurance, and aid for dependent children and the disabled, it addressed ongoing unemployment issues directly and aimed to provide sustained relief to those affected by economic hardships.

Conclusion: The connection between Unemployment, Relief Recovery and Reform, and the Social Security Act illustrates how the Great Depression necessitated a comprehensive response from the government. The need for relief for the unemployed led to recovery initiatives, which ultimately catalyzed transformative reforms, including the establishment of the Social Security system. This systemic approach not only addressed immediate unemployment issues but also laid the groundwork for future economic stability and social safety nets.