Franklin D Roosevelt

Definition

Franklin D. Roosevelt was the 32nd President of the United States, serving from 1933 to 1945, and is best known for his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II. His New Deal policies aimed to provide economic relief and recovery while reshaping the role of the federal government in American life, and his approach during WWII established the U.S. as a leading global power.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. FDR was elected four times, making him the only U.S. president to serve more than two terms in office.
2. His administration implemented significant social reforms, including Social Security, which fundamentally changed the American welfare system.
3. FDR's leadership style was characterized by a willingness to experiment with bold policies to address economic issues, often referred to as 'the only thing we have to fear is fear itself.'
4. Under his leadership, the U.S. transitioned from isolationism to interventionism, especially after the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.
5. FDR's health was a closely guarded secret; he suffered from polio, which left him wheelchair-bound, yet he maintained a vigorous public image throughout his presidency.

Review Questions

• How did Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal policies transform the role of the federal government in American society?
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal policies significantly expanded the role of the federal government by increasing its involvement in economic recovery and social welfare. Programs such as Social Security and various job creation initiatives marked a shift towards a more active government that took responsibility for citizens' economic security. This transformation laid the groundwork for future government intervention in economic matters and established a precedent for federal responsibility in providing relief and support during crises.
• In what ways did FDR's approach to World War II differ from previous U.S. foreign policy strategies?
  • FDR's approach to World War II marked a departure from previous U.S. foreign policy strategies characterized by isolationism. He actively sought to support Allies before entering the war through measures like the Lend-Lease Act, providing military aid while maintaining a public stance of neutrality. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, FDR mobilized the entire nation for war, leading to significant military engagement and establishing the U.S. as a major global power committed to defeating Axis forces.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidency on American political and social structures.
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidency had profound long-term impacts on American political and social structures by redefining the relationship between citizens and their government. His New Deal laid the foundation for modern social welfare programs that continue to influence American society today. Furthermore, FDR's efforts during WWII solidified America's role as a global leader, which shaped foreign policy in subsequent decades. The expansion of federal authority initiated by his administration fostered ongoing debates about government intervention in economics and social issues that remain relevant in contemporary political discourse.

Related terms

New Deal:

A series of programs and reforms introduced by FDR to combat the Great Depression, focusing on relief for the unemployed, recovery of the economy, and reform of financial systems.

Fireside Chats:

A series of radio broadcasts made by FDR to communicate directly with the American public, helping to build trust and support for his policies during tough times.

Lend-Lease Act:

A program under which the U.S. supplied Allied nations with vast amounts of war material during World War II, reflecting FDR's commitment to supporting allies against Axis powers.