What Was the New Deal? A Clear Definition and Legacy

The New Deal was a sweeping set of federal programs and reforms launched by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1933 during the Great Depression. Its primary purpose was to provide immediate economic relief, restore public confidence, and implement structural changes to prevent future economic collapses. Far more than emergency aid, the New Deal redefined the role of government in American life, introducing lasting social safety nets and regulatory frameworks.

Historical Context and Origins

During the early 1930s, the U.S. faced unprecedented economic crisis. By 1933, unemployment exceeded 25%, banks were failing at alarming rates, and millions of Americans lost homes and livelihoods. The Hoover administration’s response was widely seen as insufficient, creating a political opening for Roosevelt’s election. Upon taking office, FDR promised a