FDR First 100 Days: Immediate Action — Reading Comprehension

The first 100 days of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidency in 1933 marked a critical turning point in American history. When Roosevelt took office, the United States was suffering from the Great Depression, a deep economic crisis that left nearly one-fourth of Americans unemployed and many banks closed. Citizens felt anxious and unsure whether the federal government could help. Roosevelt responded with rapid action, launching a series of bold programs and laws known as the New Deal.

Many historians argue that the immediate goal of the First 100 Days was to restore public confidence. Roosevelt used his famous radio broadcasts, called fireside chats, to speak directly to the American people. In his first chat, he explained, "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself." This quote showed his effort to calm panic and encourage hope. Roosevelt’s communication strategy was essential in persuading Americans that the government could help solve their problems.

During these 100 days, Congress passed a remarkable fifteen major laws. Some acts, such as the Emergency Banking Relief Act, reopened stable banks and aimed to restore trust in the financial system. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) provided jobs for young men, while the Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA) helped farmers by raising crop prices. These measures were designed as relief and recovery, promising immediate support and long-term reform.

However, not everyone agreed with Roosevelt’s approach. Some business leaders and politicians feared that the New Deal gave the government too much power. They worried that programs like the AAA interfered with the free market. Others, such as Senator Huey Long, argued that the New Deal did not go far enough to help the poor. This debate revealed the complexity of solving national economic problems and highlighted tensions between government intervention and free enterprise.

Supporters of Roosevelt believed his leadership saved the country from disaster. They pointed to evidence such as rising employment and improved bank stability. Critics, on the other hand, argued that not all Americans benefited equally. For example, some minority workers and women had difficulty finding jobs in government programs. These contradictions show that the New Deal’s impact was both positive and limited, depending on whose perspective is considered.

Looking back, Roosevelt’s First 100 Days set a precedent for swift presidential action during crisis. The First 100 Days became a standard by which future presidents were judged. While the New Deal did not end the Great Depression, it introduced lasting changes in how Americans expected the government to respond to hardship. Roosevelt’s ability to act quickly, communicate directly, and try multiple solutions shaped both the presidency and the country’s future.

Interesting Fact: The term "First 100 Days" is still used today to measure the early success of new U.S. presidents.

What crisis began before FDR took office?

How many major laws were passed?

Who delivered the fireside chats?

Why did some leaders oppose the New Deal?

What was a goal of the First 100 Days?

What did the Emergency Banking Relief Act do?

Roosevelt’s actions ended the Great Depression. True or false?

What is a "relief" program?