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 transformed the U.S. tax system, expanding government involvement in the economy and establishing a framework for modern welfare programs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Franklin D. Roosevelt was the only U.S. president elected to four terms, reflecting the trust and support he garnered during turbulent times.
2. His administration introduced significant tax reforms that included higher income taxes for the wealthy and new taxes on corporate profits, aiming to fund New Deal programs.
3. FDR’s approach to taxation emphasized progressivity, where tax rates increased with income levels, which shaped modern tax policy in America.
4. Roosevelt's policies expanded the federal government's role in economic regulation and social welfare, marking a departure from previous laissez-faire approaches.
5. The impact of Roosevelt's tax policies and New Deal programs helped lay the foundation for subsequent welfare state developments in the United States.

Review Questions

• How did Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal policies influence the structure of the U.S. tax system?
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal policies fundamentally altered the U.S. tax system by introducing progressive taxation, where higher earners paid a larger percentage of their income in taxes. This shift was aimed at redistributing wealth to support economic recovery during the Great Depression. The implementation of new taxes on corporate profits and increased income taxes for wealthy individuals was critical in funding various relief programs designed to assist struggling Americans.
• Discuss the significance of the Social Security Act in relation to FDR's overall economic strategy.
  • The Social Security Act was a cornerstone of FDR's economic strategy as it aimed to provide a safety net for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and unemployed. By establishing a federal program funded through payroll taxes, it represented a significant shift toward government responsibility for social welfare. This act not only provided immediate financial relief but also set a precedent for future social programs and demonstrated FDR's commitment to economic security for all citizens.
• Evaluate how Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidency redefined the relationship between citizens and the federal government regarding economic policy.
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidency redefined the relationship between citizens and the federal government by establishing a more active role for government intervention in economic matters. His New Deal programs expanded federal responsibilities into areas like job creation, financial regulation, and social welfare, which were previously left to states or private entities. This shift fostered a new expectation among citizens that the government would play a crucial role in ensuring economic stability and personal security, leading to lasting changes in American governance and public policy.

Related terms

New Deal: A series of programs and reforms enacted by FDR aimed at economic recovery during the Great Depression, which significantly changed the role of government in economic affairs.

Social Security Act: A key piece of legislation passed in 1935 as part of the New Deal, creating a social insurance program designed to provide financial support for the elderly and unemployed.

Revenue Act of 1935: A law that increased taxes on higher incomes, reflecting Roosevelt's belief that wealthier individuals should contribute more to the nation's recovery efforts.