U.S. Economic Policies and Social Security

The New Deal, introduced by Franklin Roosevelt, transformed America by addressing economic collapse and expanding government responsibility. Key legacies include FDR's leadership, Eleanor Roosevelt's activism, deficit spending, financial regulation, the New Deal coalition, and the Social Security system. These initiatives provided jobs, hope, and economic growth, while also establishing long-term government roles in citizens' welfare and financial security.

What was one of the primary goals of Franklin Roosevelt's New Deal?

• To provide hope and jobs to the American people

• To reduce government intervention in the economy

• To increase taxes on the wealthy

• To eliminate all forms of social welfare

How did Eleanor Roosevelt change the role of the First Lady?

• By focusing solely on hosting social events

• By becoming deeply involved in political and social issues

• By avoiding public appearances

• By managing the White House staff

What is deficit spending?

• Spending less money than the government earns

• Spending more money than the government earns

• Balancing the budget

• Eliminating all government debt

Which modern president did NOT use deficit spending to spur economic recovery?

• Herbert Hoover

• Barack Obama

• George W. Bush

• Ronald Reagan

What does the FDIC do?

• Regulates the stock market

• Provides loans to small businesses

• Ensures money in banks is safe

• Sets interest rates for banks

What was the purpose of the SEC established during the New Deal?

• To ensure fair play in the stock market

• To regulate the banking industry

• To provide insurance for bank deposits

• To manage the national debt

Which group was NOT part of the New Deal coalition?

• African Americans

• Southern whites

• Labor unions

• Wealthy industrialists

What is a significant challenge facing the Social Security system today?

• Too many contributors and not enough retirees

• The government borrowing from its funds

• Excessive surplus in the trust fund

• Lack of public support

How did the New Deal change the political landscape in America?

• It created a coalition that supported the Democratic Party

• It led to the dominance of the Republican Party

• It eliminated political parties

• It had no impact on political affiliations

What is the primary function of the Social Security system?

• To offer financial support to retirees

• To fund public education

• To manage national parks

• To provide healthcare for all citizens