Thesis
Despite many challenges and obstacles in his government programs, Franklin Roosevelt showed leadership by pushing New Deal reforms that provided relief to Americans suffering through the hardships of the Great Depression. The changes he made to government left behind a legacy of a government undivided in social welfare that lasts today. His guidance and ability to make bold, smart, decisions carried us through our trials and helped shape our nation to what it is today. By leading us with new ideas and ways of thinking, he gave us tools to dig ourselves out of economic depression. By the end of his term he had taken our country from being a struggling, defenseless nation to being a world power and powerhouse of industry.
First Inaugural Address of FDR March 4, 1933
“Economy Watch" washingtonpost.com Dec 10, 2014
“Economy Watch" washingtonpost.com Dec 10, 2014
"I am certain that my fellow Americans expect that on my induction into the Presidency I will address them with a candor and a decision which the present situation of our people impel. This is preeminently the time to speak the truth, the whole truth, frankly and boldly. Nor need we shrink from honestly facing conditions in our country today. This great Nation will endure as it has endured, will revive and will prosper. So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself—nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance. In every dark hour of our national life a leadership of frankness and vigor has met with that understanding and support of the people themselves which is essential to victory. I am convinced that you will again give that support to leadership in these critical days."