National Industrial Recovery Act

Definition

The National Industrial Recovery Act (NIRA) was a key piece of legislation enacted in 1933 as part of the New Deal, aimed at revitalizing the U.S. economy during the Great Depression. It sought to promote industrial growth by establishing codes of fair competition, supporting labor rights, and providing for public works programs, which ultimately influenced industrialization and urbanization across states, including Alabama.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The National Industrial Recovery Act was signed into law on June 16, 1933, as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal response to the Great Depression.
2. NIRA aimed to stabilize prices and wages in industries heavily affected by the economic downturn, which included sectors prominent in Alabama such as textiles and coal mining.
3. The act encouraged collective bargaining for workers, which helped establish labor unions and improved labor conditions throughout Alabama.
4. NIRA also allowed for the creation of infrastructure projects that led to urban development in Alabama, providing jobs and modernizing cities.
5. The Supreme Court declared NIRA unconstitutional in 1935, leading to a shift in how the federal government approached economic recovery.

Review Questions

• How did the National Industrial Recovery Act impact labor rights in Alabama during the Great Depression?
  • The National Industrial Recovery Act significantly influenced labor rights in Alabama by encouraging collective bargaining and supporting unionization efforts. This provided workers with better negotiating power regarding wages and working conditions in key industries like textiles and coal mining. The push for fair competition also meant that industries had to comply with new labor standards, leading to improved treatment of workers.
• Discuss the role of public works programs established under the National Industrial Recovery Act in transforming urban areas in Alabama.
  • Public works programs established under the National Industrial Recovery Act played a crucial role in transforming urban areas in Alabama. These projects not only created jobs during a time of economic hardship but also led to significant infrastructure improvements such as roads, bridges, and public buildings. The investment in urban development helped stimulate economic activity, making cities more modern and accessible for residents.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the National Industrial Recovery Act on Alabama's industrial landscape following its repeal.
  • The long-term effects of the National Industrial Recovery Act on Alabama's industrial landscape were substantial, despite its repeal in 1935. While some regulations were eliminated, the initial push for industrial growth and labor rights set a precedent that influenced future legislation and policies. The act fostered a culture of organization among workers and laid the groundwork for post-World War II industrial expansion in Alabama, particularly in sectors like manufacturing and aerospace.

Related terms

New Deal: A series of programs and reforms introduced by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to address the economic crisis of the Great Depression.

Public Works Administration: A New Deal agency that provided jobs through the construction of large-scale public works projects, helping to stimulate economic recovery.

National Recovery Administration: An agency established by the NIRA to oversee the implementation of industry codes and promote fair competition and labor rights.