Franklin D. Roosevelt

Definition

Franklin D. Roosevelt was the 32nd President of the United States, serving from 1933 until his death in 1945. He is best known for leading the country through the Great Depression and World War II, significantly expanding the powers of the presidency and reshaping the role of government in American life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Roosevelt was elected four times, making him the only U.S. president to serve more than two terms.
2. His administration introduced significant reforms that changed the relationship between the federal government and citizens, expanding social safety nets.
3. FDR was instrumental in establishing Social Security, which provided financial assistance to the elderly and unemployed.
4. During World War II, he played a key role in establishing alliances with other countries and strategizing military efforts against Axis powers.
5. His 'fireside chats' were radio broadcasts that helped him connect with Americans and explain his policies in a relatable way.

Review Questions

• How did Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidency change the constitutional powers of the office?
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt significantly expanded the constitutional powers of the presidency through his New Deal programs and responses to the Great Depression. By taking bold executive actions, like issuing executive orders to implement new policies and regulations, he set a precedent for increased presidential authority. His leadership during World War II also showcased a more active role for the president in international affairs, shifting public expectations about what the presidency could and should do.
• In what ways did Franklin D. Roosevelt's administration contribute to the evolution of presidential roles in American government?
  • Roosevelt's administration marked a pivotal shift in the evolution of presidential roles by actively involving the federal government in economic recovery and social welfare through his New Deal programs. This expanded view of presidential responsibility laid the groundwork for future presidents to engage in more proactive governance. His use of media, particularly radio with his 'fireside chats', further transformed how presidents communicate with citizens, establishing a direct line that would evolve into modern presidential campaigning and public relations.
• Evaluate how Franklin D. Roosevelt’s policies shaped public perception of government during his presidency and their lasting impact on public policy in America.
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt's policies fundamentally reshaped public perception of government as an essential player in ensuring economic security and welfare for citizens. By implementing programs like Social Security and various economic reforms, he fostered a belief that government should be responsible for addressing social and economic issues. This legacy has had a lasting impact on public policy, contributing to an expectation that future administrations would continue to engage actively in economic stabilization and social welfare efforts, influencing debates about government's role in society even today.

Related terms

New Deal:

A series of programs and policies implemented by Roosevelt to provide relief, recovery, and reform during the Great Depression.

Executive Orders: Directives issued by the president that manage the operations of the federal government and have the force of law.

Four Freedoms: A concept articulated by Roosevelt that includes freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear, serving as a guiding vision for American values.