During the Great Depression and the subsequent New Deal, Americans’ expectations of the government underwent significant transformation, influenced by the economic crisis and the response of the federal government.
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Initial Expectations: At the onset of the Great Depression in 1929, many Americans held a relatively limited view of the government's role in the economy, reflecting the prevailing belief in individualism and self-reliance. The government was primarily seen as a body that maintained law and order, rather than one that intervened in economic matters.
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Shift in Perceptions: As the Depression deepened, with widespread unemployment, business failures, and social dislocation, public sentiment began to shift. Americans started to expect more proactive measures from the federal government to address the economic hardships they faced. The dire circumstances highlighted the inadequacies of local and state governments in responding to the crisis, leading people to look towards Washington for solutions.
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The New Deal Response: Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal programs (initiated in 1933) fundamentally altered Americans' expectations of government. Programs aimed at relief (such as the Civilian Conservation Corps), recovery (like the National Industrial Recovery Act), and reform (including the Social Security Act) represented a significant expansion of government involvement in economic and social welfare.
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Acceptance of Government Intervention: By the mid-1930s, many Americans came to accept, and even expect, the government to play a key role in the economy. There was a growing belief that it was the government's responsibility to ensure economic stability and to provide a safety net for the vulnerable. This marked a shift from viewing the government primarily as a regulator to seeing it as a facilitator and protector of economic welfare.
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Long-Term Changes: The expectations set during the New Deal era had lasting impacts. While some Americans remained skeptical of federal power, a significant portion of the population began to see the government as an essential partner in economic and social development. This established a precedent for future government interventions during economic downturns and crises.
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Legacy and Aftermath: Following the New Deal, the role of government continued to evolve, especially after World War II, leading to the establishment of a more robust welfare state. Expectations shifted toward a continuous demand for government action on social issues, economic recovery, and civil rights.
In summary, the Great Depression and the New Deal catalyzed a fundamental change in American expectations of government, paving the way for a more active and involved federal role in the economy and in people’s daily lives. This evolution reflected a broader acceptance of the government's responsibilities in addressing economic and social challenges.