The Great Depression marked one of the most challenging periods in American history. Between 1929 and 1939, millions struggled to find work, and the nation’s economy was in jeopardy. To address this crisis, President Franklin D. Roosevelt launched a series of programs and policies collectively known as The New Deal. As educators, it’s our responsibility to help students grasp this transformative time in our history, and the following guide offers insights into teaching students about The New Deal.
First and foremost, explore the causes behind the Great Depression. Students must recognize the role of factors such as stock market crashes, bank failures, and reduced consumer spending. Understanding these causes enables them to appreciate the need for The New Deal.
Begin with an overview of The New Deal’s three key objectives: relief, recovery, and reform. Encourage students to analyze how specific programs like Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), Works Progress Administration (WPA), and Social Security Act addressed these objectives by providing jobs, improving infrastructure, and safeguarding citizens against poverty.
Integrate primary sources into your curriculum to make your lessons more engaging. Share speeches by FDR such as his First Inaugural Address and Fireside Chats to give students firsthand insights into his motivations behind The New Deal. Additionally, it presents photographs and artwork from the era that vividly portray the struggles and triumphs of everyday Americans during The Great Depression.
Create opportunities for hands-on experiences like collaborative projects or mock trials related to issues tackled by New Deal programs. Students could play roles such as workers benefiting from a certain program or business owners affected by new regulations. These activities foster critical thinking skills while also encouraging creativity.
Lastly, integrate diverse perspectives on The New Deal in your discussions. Despite its widespread benefits, detractors criticized it for government overreach or not going far enough—making it crucial for students to understand the various opinions and debates that arose during its implementation.
By taking these steps, you can bring The New Deal to life for your students while inspiring them to recognize its profound impact on American society. With appropriate resources and teaching strategies, students will gain an enriched understanding of this significant historical period, equipping them to become informed citizens in today’s world.
