New Deal

Definition

The New Deal was a series of programs and policies introduced by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in the 1930s to address the economic hardships caused by the Great Depression. It aimed to provide relief for the unemployed, recovery of the economy, and reform of the financial system to prevent future depressions. This transformative initiative had a profound impact on American society and culture, including its influence on cinema during this period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The New Deal introduced key legislation that laid the groundwork for modern welfare programs in the United States, helping to redefine the relationship between government and citizens.
2. One significant aspect of the New Deal was its cultural influence; it provided funding for artists, writers, and filmmakers, leading to a flourishing of creative expression in America.
3. Hollywood responded to the New Deal era by producing films that reflected social issues and hardships faced by ordinary Americans, often depicting themes of struggle and resilience.
4. The New Deal also led to the establishment of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), which protected workers' rights to organize and engage in collective bargaining.
5. Films from this era often included escapism and hope, showcasing a desire for better times amidst the economic despair of the Great Depression.

Review Questions

• How did the New Deal influence the themes and content of American cinema during the Great Depression?
  • The New Deal had a significant impact on American cinema by shaping its themes around social issues and the struggles faced by everyday people. Filmmakers began to explore topics such as poverty, unemployment, and resilience in their narratives, often reflecting the challenges brought on by the economic crisis. This shift allowed audiences to connect with films on a deeper level as they resonated with their own experiences during the Great Depression.
• Evaluate the role of federal funding in supporting artistic expression during the New Deal period.
  • Federal funding under the New Deal played a crucial role in supporting artistic expression by providing financial resources to artists, writers, and filmmakers through various programs. This allowed for an outpouring of creative works that not only entertained but also documented and responded to the societal struggles of the time. The government recognized culture as essential for boosting morale during economic hardship, leading to significant cultural contributions that still influence American arts today.
• Analyze how the New Deal reshaped public perception of government intervention in economic affairs and its representation in cinema.
  • The New Deal fundamentally changed public perception of government intervention by demonstrating its potential effectiveness in addressing economic crises. In cinema, this shift was reflected through films that portrayed government programs as lifelines for struggling citizens. As stories unfolded showing characters benefiting from New Deal initiatives or grappling with their shortcomings, filmmakers contributed to a growing acceptance of government as an active player in economic recovery, influencing how Americans viewed their relationship with authority.

Related terms

Social Security Act: A 1935 law that established a system of old-age benefits and unemployment insurance, part of the broader New Deal program aimed at providing economic security.

Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA): A New Deal agency that provided direct relief for the unemployed through grants to state and local governments to fund work programs and alleviate poverty.

WPA (Works Progress Administration): A key New Deal agency that provided millions of jobs for unemployed Americans during the Great Depression by funding public works projects, including roads, schools, and parks.