The 1935 election in New Zealand marked a significant political shift, resulting in the rise of the Labour Party to power during a time of economic hardship caused by the Great Depression. The election was notable for its large voter turnout and the Labour Party's promise to address the social and economic issues facing the country, which resonated with many New Zealanders struggling with unemployment and poverty.
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The 1935 election saw the Labour Party winning a landslide victory, securing 55 out of 80 seats in Parliament.
The election was held against the backdrop of high unemployment rates and widespread poverty due to the Great Depression, which influenced voter sentiment.
Mickey Savage became the Prime Minister after the Labour Party's victory, leading significant reforms to address social welfare and economic recovery.
This election marked the first time a Labour-led government was elected in New Zealand, changing the political landscape for years to come.
The Labour Party campaigned on promises of public works projects and increased government intervention in the economy to stimulate growth and job creation.
Review Questions
How did the 1935 election reflect the impact of the Great Depression on New Zealand society?
The 1935 election reflected the impact of the Great Depression through the Labour Party's rise to power as they addressed widespread unemployment and poverty. Voters were drawn to their proposals for social welfare reforms and economic intervention. The desperation caused by economic hardship made citizens more receptive to Labour's vision for a more active government role in alleviating their struggles.
Evaluate how the policies implemented by the Labour government after the 1935 election transformed New Zealand's approach to social welfare.
After the 1935 election, the Labour government implemented several transformative policies that laid the foundation for modern social welfare in New Zealand. The introduction of the Social Security Act in 1938 marked a significant expansion of government responsibility for citizens' well-being. This included support systems for unemployment, sickness, and pensions, moving away from previous reliance on charity or private assistance.
Analyze the long-term implications of the 1935 election results on New Zealand's political landscape and governance.
The results of the 1935 election had profound long-term implications for New Zealand's political landscape and governance. The Labour Party's victory initiated a shift toward social democratic policies that prioritized welfare and state intervention. This set a precedent for future governments and reshaped voters' expectations regarding government responsibility for economic and social issues. The Labour Party's approach influenced New Zealand's political discourse for decades, fostering a culture of social equity and collective responsibility.
A severe worldwide economic downturn that began in 1929 and lasted throughout the 1930s, significantly impacting economies and societies around the globe.
Legislation introduced by the Labour government that established a comprehensive welfare system in New Zealand, providing support for the unemployed, elderly, and sick.