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FDR First 100 Days: Immediate Action — Reading Comprehension

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D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.3.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

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This reading passage explores President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s (FDR) First 100 Days and his immediate actions to address the Great Depression. Students will analyze the causes of the economic crisis, contrasting perspectives on FDR’s New Deal, and the complex consequences of rapid government intervention. Utilizing a compare/contrast structure, the passage models historical reasoning with primary source evidence, integrates academic vocabulary, and highlights multiple viewpoints. This resource aligns with C3 Framework standard D2.His.2.3-5 and relevant ELA standards (RI.4.3, RI.4.4, W.4.2). Activities include a reading comprehension quiz, explanatory writing prompts, a timeline, and a graphic organizer, supporting critical thinking and analysis. The passage features a glossary and a complete Spanish translation, making it accessible for diverse learners. Teachers and students will also find a relevant public domain image, timeline events, and support for close reading. Designed for deeper understanding of U.S. history, this resource is ideal for classroom or independent study, with read aloud audio and bilingual access.

CONTENT PREVIEW

"FDR [Franklin Delano Roosevelt]- radio broadcast" by Harris & Ewing / Library of Congress.

In 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt began his term during the worst crisis in American economic history, the Great Depression. Banks were closing, people were losing their homes, and unemployment was at record highs. The country needed urgent action. Roosevelt responded by launching what became known as the First 100 Days, a period when the federal government passed an extraordinary number of new legislation to address the national emergency.

Roosevelt's approach contrasted with that of previous presidents. He believed that government should take bold steps to solve problems. Within hours of taking office, he called Congress into a special session. Working together, they passed laws quickly to help banks reopen, provide jobs, and assist those in need. This burst of action was a direct response to the emergency facing the nation.

One of the first laws passed was the Emergency Banking Act. It allowed only stable banks to reopen and restored public confidence in the banking system. The government also created new agencies, such as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), which provided work for young people, and the Agricultural Adjustment Administration (AAA), which aimed to help farmers. These agencies were called part of the New Deal, a group of programs designed to bring relief, recovery, and reform.

The speed and scale of Roosevelt's efforts set a new precedent for presidential leadership. Never before had so many major laws been passed so quickly. This established the idea that the first months of a presidency could be a time for big changes. Future presidents would be measured by their achievements in their own first 100 days.

However, not all Americans agreed with these changes. Some believed the government was becoming too powerful, while others thought the programs did not go far enough. There were debates in Congress and in the public about how much the government should do to fix the economy. Despite these disagreements, most historians agree that Roosevelt’s first 100 days changed the course of American government and set a lasting example of how leaders can act during a crisis.

Roosevelt’s actions during this period were not just about passing laws—they were about restoring hope. Through his famous radio talks, known as "Fireside Chats," he explained his plans to the American people, helping them feel informed and involved. These efforts built trust and encouraged citizens to support the government’s solutions.

Interesting Fact: In his first 100 days, FDR signed 15 major laws, a record-setting pace that inspired the term "First 100 Days" to describe the beginning of every new presidency since then.

What year did FDR become president?

1933192919451918

What was the main problem FDR faced?

Great DepressionWorld War IICivil WarDust Bowl

What agency helped young people find work?

Civilian Conservation CorpsFederal ReserveSupreme CourtNASA

Why did FDR call Congress to a special session?

To pass emergency lawsTo declare warTo build monumentsTo celebrate a holiday

How did Roosevelt restore trust in banks?

Emergency Banking ActLowering taxesBuilding highwaysSelling gold

What was the New Deal?

A group of programsA peace treatyA sports teamA new bank