The New Deal changed the role of the federal government in people's lives 3-5 sentences, evaluate whether this was a positive or negative change. Describe 2-3 New Deal programs that were effective or ineffective to support your evaluation

Answer 1

The New Deal significantly expanded the role of the federal government in people's lives. It aimed to provide relief to the millions suffering from the Great Depression and implemented various programs to stimulate the economy and regulate financial institutions. Whether this was a positive or negative change is subjective, as it depends on one's political ideology and interpretation of the government's role.

Two effective New Deal programs were the Social Security Act and the Works Progress Administration (WPA). The Social Security Act established a system of unemployment insurance, old-age pensions, and aid to dependent children, providing a safety net for millions of Americans. The WPA provided jobs to the unemployed by funding public works projects, creating lasting infrastructure and positively impacting local economies.

However, not all New Deal programs were equally successful. The Agricultural Adjustment Administration (AAA) aimed to support farmers by paying them subsidies to reduce production and raise crop prices. While it helped stabilize the farming sector, it favored wealthy landowners over poor tenants and sharecroppers, exacerbating inequalities. The National Industrial Recovery Act (NIRA) attempted to regulate industrial production and set fair wages, but it faced issues with enforcement and was eventually declared unconstitutional.

Ultimately, the evaluation of the New Deal's impact on people's lives depends on one's perspective. Supporters argue that it successfully provided relief and economic stimulation during a dire time, while critics argue that it expanded government power too much and did not address underlying economic issues.