The New Deal Program was a series of reforms and government programs instituted by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in the 1930s in response to the Great Depression. The New Deal Program was designed to address the economic and social issues that plagued the country during this time by providing relief for families struggling to make ends meet, creating jobs and economic growth, and regulating financial markets to prevent another economic crisis.
Teaching students about the New Deal Program is important because it shows them how government intervention can positively impact society during tough economic times. Here are some strategies to help teach students about the New Deal Program:
- Explore the Impact of the Great Depression– Before delving into the New Deal Program, it is necessary to understand the severity of the Great Depression and what led up to it. This will allow students to better understand the significance of the New Deal Program and its impact on the country.
- Break Down Key Components of the New Deal Program – Help students understand the major components of the New Deal Program, which includes relief programs like the Civilian Conservation Corps, the Works Progress Administration, and the National Recovery Administration, which helped create jobs and support for struggling American citizens.
- Analyze Primary Source Documents – Have students read excerpts from FDR’s speeches and other primary sources to gain insight into how the New Deal Program was presented to the American public at the time. This can help students better understand the intentions behind the New Deal Program.
- Discuss Critics and Controversy – While many Americans at the time supported the New Deal Program, it was not without its critics. Encourage students to discuss various perspectives on the New Deal Program and why some people may have opposed it.
- Connect Historical Events to Current Economic Issues – Help students connect the events of the past to current economic issues. Students can compare and contrast the Great Depression to the 2008 recession or other recent economic events.
Teaching students about the New Deal Program is important in helping them understand the role of government intervention in times of economic crisis. Through an exploration of the New Deal Program and its impact on American society, students can better understand historical events and how they continue to shape our nation today.
