174: The First “First Hundred Days:” FDR Kicks Off the New Deal
Feb 24, 2025
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Discover the whirlwind of Franklin D. Roosevelt's first 100 days in office during the Great Depression. From a dramatic banking holiday to crucial legislation like the Emergency Banking Act, FDR navigates immense challenges with innovative strategies. The establishment of the Civilian Conservation Corps showcases his commitment to recovery and environmental needs. Eleonore's compassionate outreach to veterans emphasizes the social fabric of the era. Dive into the power struggles and bold moves that shaped America's path back to stability.
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Quick takeaways
FDR's innovative press conference style transformed the presidential media relationship, fostering a transparent and conversational connection with the public.
The swift passage of 15 crucial legislative measures during FDR's first 100 days set a new benchmark for future presidential performance evaluations.
The Civilian Conservation Corps not only provided jobs to millions of young men but also contributed significantly to environmental conservation efforts across the nation.
Deep dives
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FDR's First Press Conference
Franklin Delano Roosevelt's inaugural press conference set the tone for his relationship with the media, aiming for a more open and conversational style. He emphasized that he wanted a conversational format, suggesting that there would be no need for written questions or off-the-record comments to establish a more relaxed atmosphere. This change from previous presidents marked a new era of transparency and connectedness with the public and media. Reporters noted Roosevelt’s congenial demeanor, reminiscent of his cousin Theodore Roosevelt, and his willingness to address pressing national concerns.
The Start of the New Deal
FDR's first 100 days in office were characterized by swift legislative action to combat the Great Depression, responding to a crisis where unemployment reached nearly 25%. He called a special session of Congress, which resulted in the passage of 15 significant legislative measures. This included the Emergency Banking Act, which restored confidence in the banking system following the rampant bank failures throughout the early 1930s. The immediate actions undertaken by FDR would establish a crucial precedent for future administrations, framing the concept of a president's first 100 days as a benchmark for measuring success.
The Civilian Conservation Corps
The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) emerged as a significant program during FDR's New Deal efforts, aimed at providing jobs for unemployed young men while improving the environment. The program engaged young men in public works projects, which included national park improvements and tree planting initiatives. It was not only an economic relief measure but also promoted environmental conservation, making it one of the most popular aspects of the New Deal. The CCC provided jobs to millions of men and transformed landscapes, leaving a lasting impact well into the future.
Legislation and Agricultural Recovery
FDR's administration pushed forward with impactful legislation focused on aiding agricultural recovery during the Great Depression, recognizing the paradox of surplus crops amid widespread hunger. The Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA) incentivized farmers to reduce production to stabilize prices, a controversial yet necessary tactic in the face of economic calamity. This initiative aimed to alleviate the financial burdens on farmers while promoting more sustainable production practices. Although the act succeeded in many areas, it also highlighted the systemic inequalities affecting sharecroppers and tenant farmers, particularly within the African American community.
“[We] had forgotten to be Republicans or Democrats. We were just a bunch of men trying to save the banking system.”
This is the story of FDR’s first 100 days in office.
In early 1933, banks foreclose on thousands upon thousands of homes and farms every month. The banks have little choice–they too are failing! Meanwhile, unemployment is hovering near 25%. It’s a catastrophe. Capitalism itself and the American way of life appears to be on the precipice.
Enter President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who calls an immediate “banking holiday” and an emergency session of Congress to face the hydra of crises sweeping the nation. During this 99-day congressional session that runs almost analogous to FDR’s first 100 days in the White House, they’ll pass 15 major pieces of legislation that create new organizations, regulations, and more with the hopes of getting the American people back on their feet.
But how exactly, does Franklin navigate the divergent views, difficult personalities, and competing priorities to get this mountain of legislation through? That is precisely our story.
