The New Deal changed the role of the federal government in people’s lives.

Question

In 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 changes brought about by the New Deal in the role of the federal government can be seen as both positive and negative. On one hand, the New Deal programs provided crucial relief to those suffering from the Great Depression, such as the creation of jobs through the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and the establishment of the Social Security system. These initiatives helped alleviate immediate hardships and provided a safety net for vulnerable groups. On the other hand, some argue that the expansion of government power and intervention stifled free-market principles and hindered long-term economic growth. Moreover, some New Deal programs, like the National Industrial Recovery Act, were ineffective in achieving their intended goals and were later ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court. Overall, the evaluation of the New Deal's impact on the role of the federal government in people's lives is subjective, depending on one's perspective and priorities.