Curious, an essay from some years ago

This was an essay I wrote at least 4 or 5 years ago, and don't recall writing a single word of it. However, I came across it and found it somewhat interesting to read given our current situation. Yes, it is obvious I wrote this when I was much younger...but question my stance as you compare it to our current day problems; I'd love to hear your opinions



President Roosevelt’s New Deal was the beginning of a much stronger role by the Federal government in the economic well being of the country. F.D.R. received heavy opposition towards the New Deal; many felt it “endangered the American system of a free-enterprise.” However, programs such as the FDIC, AAA, CCC, and the Social Security Act played a huge role in pulling the country out of the depression. The measures taken, shaped our government today, and will continue to throughout history.
The New Deal was essentially a shot in the dark for F.D.R., but the over all outcome was a success. Without an immediate call for action, such as the New Deal, the depression would have reached an inconceivable point, and lasted much longer. Many of the programs introduced contributed to the success of the New Deal. One of the initial and essential actions enforced, was the FDIC. This reestablished American faith in banks, and quickly deposits exceeded withdrawals. Not only was money in circulation once again, but American’s were placing trust in the hands of the government. F.D.R. also created many work projects for American’s, resulting in job experience, independence, increased self-esteem, and a physical and psychological boost. Among these programs were the CWA, CCC, PWA, and TVA.
The measures taken by the Federal Government during the depression were labeled as “socialistic” and thought to be unjust and wasteful. In comparison to the familiar capitalistic government, and president Hoover’s “Prosperity is just around the corner” philosophy, it is understandable why such opposition might come about. However, it was clear, that a “do as you wish” approach meant tremendous suffering for an undefined period of time. It was absolutely necessary, and justifiable for the Federal government to play such a strong role in helping the country during the depression.
As the Federal government stepped in, it was unclear whether the many acts and programs introduced were beneficial of harmful to the economy. Programs such as the FDIC, AAA, CCC, and the Social Security tax all proved to be helpful, with exception of possibly the AAA later on after being proved unconstitutional. Without programs like the FDIC, faith would have never been restored in banks, which played a large role in recirculating money throughout the nation. The AAA was an exception only because it was eventually declared unconstitutional. Although the Social Security Act originally did not cover farm and domestic workers (that was later reformed), it helped millions of Americans feel more secure; and during a time like that, it was a priceless form of relief.
The depression resulted in a Federal government that intervened in a desperate time of need. To this day, our society is still one in which the government plays a large role in everyday affairs. There is a distinct difference though between times of need, and everyday affairs. It will be a very thin line between playing a role in daily choices to prevent desperate situations, and overstepping government power.
History proves there will never be a simple solution to government interaction and the perfect degree of it. F.D.R.’s New Deal was the beginning of a much stronger role by the Federal government in the economic well being of the country. Regardless of whether we need the government to play that role still today, or in the future; it was exactly what our Nation needed to be pulled from the depths of depression.