In 1939 unemployment stood at 9.2 million; in 1929, it was
2.6 million. Why is FDR remembered by scholars and by the American public as a
great, even the greatest President? (100 words, by Friday 19/4 5pm).
Franklin D. Roosevelt, is often cited by scholars and the public as being the ‘greatest president’ America has ever seen. I would argue that the Great Depression and World War Two effectively gave FDR the means to achieve this status. Like Winston Churchill, Charles De Gaulle and various other leaders during this period, FDR is remembered as being the integral leader that led their countries through war and economic upheaval. Yes it is true that FDR’s fireside chats, outstanding charismatic leadership, and revolutionary policies in social justice as seen through the Civil Works Administration also serve as evidence to grant him being labelled ‘great’, however if he had achieved these feats without the backdrop of war and depression, far less public memory of FDR would be present.
While economically the New Deal may not have seemed successful, it produced social and political reform that shaped the role of government even today; this is why to many FDR is seen as one of the greatest president’s of all time. FDR’s New Deal was based on the notion that it was the federal government’s responsibility, not the state’s, to stimulate the economy, and aid the poor. Thus FDR created a number of organisations to generate employment and foster infrastructure projects, and social reform (the social security act) making the government responsible for the needy. While there were numerous shortcomings in FDR’s New Deal, such as the reinforcement of segregation, and the fact that unemployment remained very high up until WWII, his successes were in social and political reform. FDR rapidly changed the role of the government, with his fireside chats and the rapidity with which he passed legislature; the federal government became the major source of political and social reform, more so for the first time than state governments. As expressed by Edsford “FDR expanded the president’s powers”, and thus was seen as one of the greatest presidents.
There are doubtless many more reasons than I can list here for FDR being remembered as the 'greatest' President. However, one of the more decisive reasons would almost certainly be his success in lowering (though certainly not eliminating) unemployment. Certainly from this viewpoint, the New Deal was economically successful, despite some criticism of the plan overall. FDR also repaired, through forced closures, federal financial assistance and increased regulation, the American banking system. This would have been a great relief after the many bank closures during The Depression, and it also rescued the role of the private sector in the American economy - a role that was cherished by many Americans. Lastly, through his 'fireside chats' in particular, FDR communicates to millions of Americans in a way that was both personal and respectful, yet still distant enough for respect for the presidential office (and the secret of his disability) to be maintained. His leadership during WWII is also likely to have been a factor, although we have not studied this in great detail.
Franklin D. Roosevelt is fondly remembered in the US for a wide range of reasons. To some, his challenging of the power of bankers and financiers – who he blamed for the Great Depression – and attempt to create a new, fairer economic system mean he is seen as a hero the poor and working classes. To others, his charismatic leadership and involvement in winning the Second World War, as well his work in establishing the US as a world political leader mean he is seen as a great leader and patriot. Still others see his redefining of the government’s role in society, both through his communication with the populace and also through the social policies enacted under his presidency, as an important point in the development of modern liberalism. In reality, perhaps the most important reason for Roosevelt’s continuing popularity is that he was one of the greatest political pragmatists in modern history. Roosevelt’s greatest strength was his ability to keep his finger on the pulse of popular opinion and shape his policies and communications to agree with the feelings of the American people. Through this he was not only able to become the longest-serving president in American history, but also be remembered by following generations as one of the greatest presidents in American history.
During his term as America's longest serving president, FDR arguably achieved more in office than any other president had before him. His New Deal attacked the Depression effectively: the federal government assumed new and powerful roles in the nation's economy, financial aid was provided to the aged, infirm, and unemployed and, most importantly, employment schemes such as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and Public Works Administration (PWA) was a main drive in dropping unemployment. Though FDR's New Deal failed to cure completely the Depression-induced ills of the American economy (it was America's entry into WWII that ultimately jump started the economy again), it is clear that it was his policies that made a significant impact. Finally, FDR's "fireside chats" built a bond between himself and the public—doing much to shape the image of the President as the caretaker of the American people. It was his great achievements at the time, at least on a domestic level, which give him the reputation as a great president.
FDR can be seen as being regarded as one of greatest presidents of America for a number of reasons. Firstly, his decisive leadership during the depression, by establishing agencies such as the Public Works Administration, rekindled some hope and drive to the US economy. Despite these policies failing to fully alleviate the economic downturn of the mid-30's under his leadership there was a rekindling of some economic and social hope that soon, with hard work, the depression could be conquered and the economy rebuilt. Secondly, FDR's leadership in WWII was essential to his posterity as a great President. During this time he was able to use the development of the american war machine to essentially kickstart the economy, in doing so raising the average American's standard of living substantially. Inevitably the Allies victory in the war (on large part due to US involvement) reflected greatly on FDR. Furthermore, the role of the war in establishing the dominance of the US, makes FDR's leadership a nostalgic moment in history for Americans and on that solidifies him as one of the greatest US Presidents.
Since his term as President of the United State of America, Roosevelt has been remembered by scholars and the public as 'great'. A part of this can be attributed to the circumstances in which he became President; FDR was elected in a time when America was desperate for radical political, social and economic change. While many argue that FDR only successfully achieved social and political reform (through the accomplishments achieved in the New Deal's '100 Days'), he also made economic improvements, such as creating employment through job creation. Economic upheaval from the horrendous economic situation he inherited was to some extent inevitable. His economic policies could only do so much, but the New Deal did bring new confidence and hope to the US people, not withstanding its limited economic impact. It can also be argued that FDR was considered 'great' by many Americans because of his charismatic nature. His fireside chats enabled him to relate and connect with the public in a way never seen before in American history. It is due to these accomplishments that FDR is considered to be ‘great’, and even the ‘greatest President’ by scholars and the public.
I’ve agreed with everyone’s comments so far and just thought I’d add something on FDR’s effect on the American psyche during the Depression. FDR’s time as President came at a time of hopelessness and gloom in American history and he was able to inject confidence and optimism and essentially revive the nation. FDR’s New Deal, although its substance is debated widely, changed the perspective on poverty that was prominent during Hoover’s time. Poverty was no longer seen as the result of an individual’s moral lacking but rather it was the result of economic forces. Given the extremely high unemployment in 1939, this outlook on poverty gave these millions of people hope and increased confidence in the collective ability to revive America from the Depression, leading many to dub him the greatest President.
FDR changed the office and function of the President of the United States. The executive office was designed primarily to oversee issues relating to foreign affairs and to grant assent or to veto legislation. FDR still operated in this capacity (and to some degree, winning WWII sort of gives him a free ride to 'the greatest president') but revolutionized the office with his New Deal and the creation of welfare agencies. He extended the Presidency into unprecedented territory by taking steps to reinvigorate the private sector (unlike his distant relative Teddy) and to correct poverty. Finally it might be worth adding that regardless of competence or efficiency, presidents that communicate well are always remembered well, case and point Ronald Reagan.
America’s longest serving president, FDR, lead America through a difficult time and is remembered perhaps by Americans and scholars as the greatest president yet. He is remembered first, for his revival of the American economy during the depression, shifting the responsibilities from the state to the federal government, significantly increasing employment rates. He also successfully guided America through the second World War which is fondly remembered by Americans, highly reflecting on FDR. His active, charismatic leadership and even his ‘fireside chats’ were received well by Americans, humanising him and presenting him and a relatable figure - all factors which contributed to his reputation as a great president.
FDR is often remembered as one of America’s greatest Presidents because he survived one of America’s most difficult periods in history, and managed it with charisma. The timing of his presidency aids the perception of him as rescuing the American public from the depression; he was the antidote to the decade of Republican presidents. FDR’s ‘New Deal’ was key in this; the economic and social changes that he implemented have become the foundation for the American state. Furthermore his charismatic manner and accessibility through Fireside Chats made FDR a unique and different type of President that the public positively responded to.
FDR has passed down a legacy of reform, change and compassion that see him routinely ranked as on of the great presidents. It’s fair to say that they times suited FDR and he suited the times. He knew the difference between long term structural reform in the US and immediate short term solutions. FDR is famed for his first 100 days and routinely presidents are now ranked on their successes and achievement in this time frame. But really the 100 days was about giving Americans and the nation confidence and the appearance of great action and drive. The real long term successes of FDR came later such as the passage of the Social Security Act in 1935 and it is these achievement which secured his long term legacy. Roosevelt changed the thinking in America from isolationist policies and through his ‘Arsenal of Democracy’ broadcast changed the mindset of American’s place and role in global affairs. Rightly so, American popular opinion continues to reflect the FDR legacy and role in defining modern America
FDR is often considered a great President through his ability to proactively engage in economic and political reform, challenging societies conceptions on how the federal government should intervene in times of economic crisis, whilst also providing leadership and hope in an era of extensive volatility and hardship. One need only consider the ‘The New Deal’ whereby increases in government spending stimulated demand, creating jobs, thus helping reduce unemployment, to ultimately aid in the USA’s recovery of the Great Depression although not completely get through it. While through his fireside chats, FDR portrayed to the electorate his charismatic personality, making everyday Americans feel more involved in the political spectrum, ensuring that political sentiment remained positive throughout his tenure.
Although using the term “great” to describe a president is somewhat ambiguous, FDR did in many respects warrant this label. He effectively became the symbol of hope for many impoverished Americans, who were dealing with the consequences of the Great Depression, by initiating social welfare and other New Deal reforms rapidly from 1933. However FDR was more than the sum of his policies. He led America through two of the 20th centuries direst crisis, whilst establishing and maintaining the perception of sharing a personal relationship with the people. His emotive language, vision, communication style and organisational capacity were immensely successful. Not only did he accomplish all that he did, he did it whilst suffering from polio, the sign of true greatness.
Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) can be remembered as America’s ‘great’ President for many reasons, from his decisive and charismatic leadership style to his successful domestic and international policies. Domestically he implemented radical economic reforms to revive the paralysed American economy in response to the Great Depression. These reforms, known as the first and second “New Deal”, gained FDR praise for rebuilding a failed financial system and giving the American people hope for the future. Internationally, FDR is remembered for his achievements in World War II as President, leading an isolationist nation into war and beating fascism. Post World War I, Americans and the majority of Congress believed in isolationism to keep their country safe and avoid losing unnecessary lives. However, despite a hostile Congress and public opinion, FDR, recognised a world crisis and a legitimate threat to America’s collective security, and ordered foreign intervention to be sent to Europe, officially entering the Second World War. It was this strong leadership that demonstrated FDR’s belief in internationalism as a mean to preserving a liberal global civilization, put the U.S on track to becoming a global superpower and contributed to his “greatness”.
FDR’s popularity and the fondness with which his Presidency is remembered is, in part, due to his implementing of the ‘New Deal’. Many of the policy changes that were enacted by FDR were focused around averting economic crisis, and fundamental to these were what are now termed as the ‘Three R’s’: relief, recovery and reform. In contrast to previous administrations which saw such polices as state-based issues, many of these policies evidenced a desire of the federal government to take ownership for the welfare of its people and similarly helped to de-stigmatise poverty by seemingly discarding previously held notions of its associated with certain moral failings. In this sense, FDR’s direct assault on the ‘Great Depression’ helped to re-vitalise a nation spiraling out of control.
Yet it wasn’t just the New Deal that catapulted FDR to his revered status. His political pragmatism was something that clearly endeared him to not only his political fellows, but to the common man. It is this pragmatism that, it could be argued, prompted much of the reform that he implemented. At such a problematic time, his desire to try something new rather than revert to what had been done before was telling of not only this pragmatic edge, but his boldness as President. Similarly, the ‘Fireside Chats’ which he had with the American people were a factor in his popular rise given their endearing nature. The humanising aspect of these should not be lost, for when combined with his strong leadership, undoubtedly played a role in forging his status as a great, if not the greatest, US President.
The question of who is the greatest president ever focuses more on intangible criteria such as the ability to inspire. There is little doubt that, through his contact with the people via the fireside chats and his move from ‘Dr. New Deal’ to ‘Dr. Win-the war’, FDR managed to capture the imagination of the American public. While he struggled to improve the unemployment situation in the United States, his leadership changed the office of the presidency for the better. This profound influence on the nature of American politics is the reason that scholars and the American public regard FDR as the greatest president in American history.
Franklin D. Roosevelt, is often cited by scholars and the public as being the ‘greatest president’ America has ever seen. I would argue that the Great Depression and World War Two effectively gave FDR the means to achieve this status. Like Winston Churchill, Charles De Gaulle and various other leaders during this period, FDR is remembered as being the integral leader that led their countries through war and economic upheaval. Yes it is true that FDR’s fireside chats, outstanding charismatic leadership, and revolutionary policies in social justice as seen through the Civil Works Administration also serve as evidence to grant him being labelled ‘great’, however if he had achieved these feats without the backdrop of war and depression, far less public memory of FDR would be present.
ReplyDeleteWhile economically the New Deal may not have seemed successful, it produced social and political reform that shaped the role of government even today; this is why to many FDR is seen as one of the greatest president’s of all time.
ReplyDeleteFDR’s New Deal was based on the notion that it was the federal government’s responsibility, not the state’s, to stimulate the economy, and aid the poor. Thus FDR created a number of organisations to generate employment and foster infrastructure projects, and social reform (the social security act) making the government responsible for the needy. While there were numerous shortcomings in FDR’s New Deal, such as the reinforcement of segregation, and the fact that unemployment remained very high up until WWII, his successes were in social and political reform.
FDR rapidly changed the role of the government, with his fireside chats and the rapidity with which he passed legislature; the federal government became the major source of political and social reform, more so for the first time than state governments. As expressed by Edsford “FDR expanded the president’s powers”, and thus was seen as one of the greatest presidents.
There are doubtless many more reasons than I can list here for FDR being remembered as the 'greatest' President. However, one of the more decisive reasons would almost certainly be his success in lowering (though certainly not eliminating) unemployment. Certainly from this viewpoint, the New Deal was economically successful, despite some criticism of the plan overall. FDR also repaired, through forced closures, federal financial assistance and increased regulation, the American banking system. This would have been a great relief after the many bank closures during The Depression, and it also rescued the role of the private sector in the American economy - a role that was cherished by many Americans. Lastly, through his 'fireside chats' in particular, FDR communicates to millions of Americans in a way that was both personal and respectful, yet still distant enough for respect for the presidential office (and the secret of his disability) to be maintained. His leadership during WWII is also likely to have been a factor, although we have not studied this in great detail.
ReplyDeleteFranklin D. Roosevelt is fondly remembered in the US for a wide range of reasons. To some, his challenging of the power of bankers and financiers – who he blamed for the Great Depression – and attempt to create a new, fairer economic system mean he is seen as a hero the poor and working classes. To others, his charismatic leadership and involvement in winning the Second World War, as well his work in establishing the US as a world political leader mean he is seen as a great leader and patriot. Still others see his redefining of the government’s role in society, both through his communication with the populace and also through the social policies enacted under his presidency, as an important point in the development of modern liberalism.
ReplyDeleteIn reality, perhaps the most important reason for Roosevelt’s continuing popularity is that he was one of the greatest political pragmatists in modern history. Roosevelt’s greatest strength was his ability to keep his finger on the pulse of popular opinion and shape his policies and communications to agree with the feelings of the American people. Through this he was not only able to become the longest-serving president in American history, but also be remembered by following generations as one of the greatest presidents in American history.
During his term as America's longest serving president, FDR arguably achieved more in office than any other president had before him. His New Deal attacked the Depression effectively: the federal government assumed new and powerful roles in the nation's economy, financial aid was provided to the aged, infirm, and unemployed and, most importantly, employment schemes such as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and Public Works Administration (PWA) was a main drive in dropping unemployment. Though FDR's New Deal failed to cure completely the Depression-induced ills of the American economy (it was America's entry into WWII that ultimately jump started the economy again), it is clear that it was his policies that made a significant impact. Finally, FDR's "fireside chats" built a bond between himself and the public—doing much to shape the image of the President as the caretaker of the American people. It was his great achievements at the time, at least on a domestic level, which give him the reputation as a great president.
ReplyDeleteFDR can be seen as being regarded as one of greatest presidents of America for a number of reasons. Firstly, his decisive leadership during the depression, by establishing agencies such as the Public Works Administration, rekindled some hope and drive to the US economy. Despite these policies failing to fully alleviate the economic downturn of the mid-30's under his leadership there was a rekindling of some economic and social hope that soon, with hard work, the depression could be conquered and the economy rebuilt.
ReplyDeleteSecondly, FDR's leadership in WWII was essential to his posterity as a great President. During this time he was able to use the development of the american war machine to essentially kickstart the economy, in doing so raising the average American's standard of living substantially. Inevitably the Allies victory in the war (on large part due to US involvement) reflected greatly on FDR. Furthermore, the role of the war in establishing the dominance of the US, makes FDR's leadership a nostalgic moment in history for Americans and on that solidifies him as one of the greatest US Presidents.
Since his term as President of the United State of America, Roosevelt has been remembered by scholars and the public as 'great'. A part of this can be attributed to the circumstances in which he became President; FDR was elected in a time when America was desperate for radical political, social and economic change. While many argue that FDR only successfully achieved social and political reform (through the accomplishments achieved in the New Deal's '100 Days'), he also made economic improvements, such as creating employment through job creation. Economic upheaval from the horrendous economic situation he inherited was to some extent inevitable. His economic policies could only do so much, but the New Deal did bring new confidence and hope to the US people, not withstanding its limited economic impact. It can also be argued that FDR was considered 'great' by many Americans because of his charismatic nature. His fireside chats enabled him to relate and connect with the public in a way never seen before in American history. It is due to these accomplishments that FDR is considered to be ‘great’, and even the ‘greatest President’ by scholars and the public.
ReplyDeleteI’ve agreed with everyone’s comments so far and just thought I’d add something on FDR’s effect on the American psyche during the Depression. FDR’s time as President came at a time of hopelessness and gloom in American history and he was able to inject confidence and optimism and essentially revive the nation. FDR’s New Deal, although its substance is debated widely, changed the perspective on poverty that was prominent during Hoover’s time. Poverty was no longer seen as the result of an individual’s moral lacking but rather it was the result of economic forces. Given the extremely high unemployment in 1939, this outlook on poverty gave these millions of people hope and increased confidence in the collective ability to revive America from the Depression, leading many to dub him the greatest President.
ReplyDeleteFDR changed the office and function of the President of the United States. The executive office was designed primarily to oversee issues relating to foreign affairs and to grant assent or to veto legislation. FDR still operated in this capacity (and to some degree, winning WWII sort of gives him a free ride to 'the greatest president') but revolutionized the office with his New Deal and the creation of welfare agencies. He extended the Presidency into unprecedented territory by taking steps to reinvigorate the private sector (unlike his distant relative Teddy) and to correct poverty. Finally it might be worth adding that regardless of competence or efficiency, presidents that communicate well are always remembered well, case and point Ronald Reagan.
ReplyDeleteAmerica’s longest serving president, FDR, lead America through a difficult time and is remembered perhaps by Americans and scholars as the greatest president yet. He is remembered first, for his revival of the American economy during the depression, shifting the responsibilities from the state to the federal government, significantly increasing employment rates. He also successfully guided America through the second World War which is fondly remembered by Americans, highly reflecting on FDR. His active, charismatic leadership and even his ‘fireside chats’ were received well by Americans, humanising him and presenting him and a relatable figure - all factors which contributed to his reputation as a great president.
ReplyDeleteFDR is often remembered as one of America’s greatest Presidents because he survived one of America’s most difficult periods in history, and managed it with charisma. The timing of his presidency aids the perception of him as rescuing the American public from the depression; he was the antidote to the decade of Republican presidents. FDR’s ‘New Deal’ was key in this; the economic and social changes that he implemented have become the foundation for the American state. Furthermore his charismatic manner and accessibility through Fireside Chats made FDR a unique and different type of President that the public positively responded to.
ReplyDeleteFDR has passed down a legacy of reform, change and compassion that see him routinely ranked as on of the great presidents.
ReplyDeleteIt’s fair to say that they times suited FDR and he suited the times. He knew the difference between long term structural reform in the US and immediate short term solutions.
FDR is famed for his first 100 days and routinely presidents are now ranked on their successes and achievement in this time frame. But really the 100 days was about giving Americans and the nation confidence and the appearance of great action and drive.
The real long term successes of FDR came later such as the passage of the Social Security Act in 1935 and it is these achievement which secured his long term legacy.
Roosevelt changed the thinking in America from isolationist policies and through his ‘Arsenal of Democracy’ broadcast changed the mindset of American’s place and role in global affairs. Rightly so, American popular opinion continues to reflect the FDR legacy and role in defining modern America
FDR is often considered a great President through his ability to proactively engage in economic and political reform, challenging societies conceptions on how the federal government should intervene in times of economic crisis, whilst also providing leadership and hope in an era of extensive volatility and hardship. One need only consider the ‘The New Deal’ whereby increases in government spending stimulated demand, creating jobs, thus helping reduce unemployment, to ultimately aid in the USA’s recovery of the Great Depression although not completely get through it. While through his fireside chats, FDR portrayed to the electorate his charismatic personality, making everyday Americans feel more involved in the political spectrum, ensuring that political sentiment remained positive throughout his tenure.
ReplyDeleteAlthough using the term “great” to describe a president is somewhat ambiguous, FDR did in many respects warrant this label. He effectively became the symbol of hope for many impoverished Americans, who were dealing with the consequences of the Great Depression, by initiating social welfare and other New Deal reforms rapidly from 1933. However FDR was more than the sum of his policies. He led America through two of the 20th centuries direst crisis, whilst establishing and maintaining the perception of sharing a personal relationship with the people. His emotive language, vision, communication style and organisational capacity were immensely successful. Not only did he accomplish all that he did, he did it whilst suffering from polio, the sign of true greatness.
ReplyDeleteFranklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) can be remembered as America’s ‘great’ President for many reasons, from his decisive and charismatic leadership style to his successful domestic and international policies. Domestically he implemented radical economic reforms to revive the paralysed American economy in response to the Great Depression. These reforms, known as the first and second “New Deal”, gained FDR praise for rebuilding a failed financial system and giving the American people hope for the future. Internationally, FDR is remembered for his achievements in World War II as President, leading an isolationist nation into war and beating fascism. Post World War I, Americans and the majority of Congress believed in isolationism to keep their country safe and avoid losing unnecessary lives. However, despite a hostile Congress and public opinion, FDR, recognised a world crisis and a legitimate threat to America’s collective security, and ordered foreign intervention to be sent to Europe, officially entering the Second World War. It was this strong leadership that demonstrated FDR’s belief in internationalism as a mean to preserving a liberal global civilization, put the U.S on track to becoming a global superpower and contributed to his “greatness”.
ReplyDeleteFDR’s popularity and the fondness with which his Presidency is remembered is, in part, due to his implementing of the ‘New Deal’. Many of the policy changes that were enacted by FDR were focused around averting economic crisis, and fundamental to these were what are now termed as the ‘Three R’s’: relief, recovery and reform. In contrast to previous administrations which saw such polices as state-based issues, many of these policies evidenced a desire of the federal government to take ownership for the welfare of its people and similarly helped to de-stigmatise poverty by seemingly discarding previously held notions of its associated with certain moral failings. In this sense, FDR’s direct assault on the ‘Great Depression’ helped to re-vitalise a nation spiraling out of control.
ReplyDeleteYet it wasn’t just the New Deal that catapulted FDR to his revered status. His political pragmatism was something that clearly endeared him to not only his political fellows, but to the common man. It is this pragmatism that, it could be argued, prompted much of the reform that he implemented. At such a problematic time, his desire to try something new rather than revert to what had been done before was telling of not only this pragmatic edge, but his boldness as President. Similarly, the ‘Fireside Chats’ which he had with the American people were a factor in his popular rise given their endearing nature. The humanising aspect of these should not be lost, for when combined with his strong leadership, undoubtedly played a role in forging his status as a great, if not the greatest, US President.
The question of who is the greatest president ever focuses more on intangible criteria such as the ability to inspire. There is little doubt that, through his contact with the people via the fireside chats and his move from ‘Dr. New Deal’ to ‘Dr. Win-the war’, FDR managed to capture the imagination of the American public. While he struggled to improve the unemployment situation in the United States, his leadership changed the office of the presidency for the better. This profound influence on the nature of American politics is the reason that scholars and the American public regard FDR as the greatest president in American history.
ReplyDelete