The New Deal was a series of programs and policies that were implemented by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the Great Depression to address the economic crisis and promote recovery. While some argue that the New Deal was a good deal for the country, others maintain that it had significant drawbacks. After analyzing various primary and secondary sources, it becomes apparent that the New Deal was a positive step in the right direction to address the economic crisis of the Great Depression.
The first argument in favor of the New Deal is that it provided relief to millions of Americans who were suffering during the Great Depression. For instance, the Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) provided direct relief to those in need
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For example, the Works Progress Administration (WPA) created jobs for millions of unemployed Americans through public works projects, such as building schools and roads. In addition, the National Recovery Administration (NRA) established codes that regulated wages and prices, which helped increase consumer purchasing power. As a result, economic output began to recover, and GDP increased by 10% between 1933 and 1936 (Document C). This evidence demonstrates that the New Deal was effective in promoting economic growth and stability.
Despite its successes, the New Deal also had some significant drawbacks. One of the most significant criticisms is that it expanded the role of the federal government in American life, which some argue was an infringement on individual liberty. For instance, the Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA) paid farmers to reduce production in an effort to raise prices, which some farmers saw as a violation of their property rights (Document B). Nevertheless, the New Deal remains a turning point in American history, as it helped to transform the role of government in society and promoted economic