Question

Which of the following best summarizes Hoover’s initial response to the Great Depression?

a. He believed the government should provide jobs for all Americans.
b. He believed people should have invested more wisely.
c. He believed private charities would meet all the needs of the poor.
d. He believed in limited government intervention.

Answer 1

d. He believed in limited government intervention.

Hoover favored “rugged individualism” and voluntarism — relying on private charities, local/state action, and business cooperation rather than large-scale federal relief or direct job programs.