AP US History in 1 Minute Daily: Limitations of the New Deal (Day 241/309)

Hey APUSHers, let’s chat about Limitations of the New Deal as part of my series- APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!

U.S. Recovery, FDR Library

The New Deal, while transforming the role of the federal government to become more responsive to the needs of Americans, faced significant limitations that shaped its effectiveness and scope. 

Unemployment, 1929-1940, apushcanvas

Notably, the New Deal did not fully eradicate unemployment during the 1930s, and despite its efforts, substantial joblessness persisted until the U.S increased its industrial and agricultural production in response to World War II.

“How the South Interprets the New Deal, Teach Tennessee History

The New Deal's policies also often perpetuated racial and gender inequalities with discriminatory employment practices in some programs such as the Civilian Conservation Corps, and outright exclusion of agricultural and domestic workers from the Social Security Act.

“Trying to Change the Umpiring,” Supreme Court Historical Society

Additionally, due to opposition from conservative forces, some New Deal initiatives, such as the National Industrial Recovery Act were declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court dealing a blow to FDR’s economic plans.

While the New Deal did provide immediate relief, obstacles to full implementation and discriminatory programs limited its benefits for all Americans. 

Join me tomorrow as I explain the Dust Bowl in the next APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!