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Franklin D Roosevelt Election 1932: New Hope — Reading Comprehension

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D2.HIS.3.3-5
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This history reading passage explores the pivotal 1932 election of Franklin D. Roosevelt and the hope it sparked during the Great Depression. Students analyze the causes of Roosevelt's victory, the challenges of the era, and the perspectives of various Americans. The passage uses a compare/contrast structure, includes a primary source quote from FDR’s inaugural address, and weaves in academic vocabulary. A glossary, multiple-choice quiz, writing activity, and timeline reinforce content understanding. The lesson aligns with C3 Framework and Common Core standards. Students can listen to the passage read aloud and access a full Spanish translation. Activities challenge students to explain causation, use evidence, and connect the event’s significance to broader U.S. history, providing a rigorous, engaging learning experience.

CONTENT PREVIEW

"[Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Herbert Hoover in convertible automobile on way to U.S. Capitol for Roosevelt's inauguration, March 4, 1933]" / Library of Congress.

The United States faced a severe economic crisis known as the Great Depression in the early 1930s. Millions of Americans lost their jobs, banks failed, and families struggled to afford basic needs. As people searched for solutions, the 1932 presidential election became a turning point in American history.

Franklin D. Roosevelt, often called FDR, ran for president in 1932 as the Democratic candidate. He promised a “New Deal” for the American people. The New Deal was a set of government programs and policies designed to provide relief for the unemployed, recovery for the economy, and reforms to prevent future crises. Roosevelt’s message stood in contrast to President Herbert Hoover, who many people felt was not doing enough to help struggling Americans.

Roosevelt’s leadership style was marked by optimism and a willingness to try new approaches. He famously said, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” This phrase gave hope to millions of citizens who felt uncertain about the future. Roosevelt’s confidence inspired people to believe that government action could make a difference. His campaign speeches reached out to Americans across the country, promising that no one would be forgotten.

After winning the election by a large margin, Roosevelt immediately began to put his ideas into action. During his first hundred days in office, he introduced many New Deal programs. These included projects to build roads and schools, financial regulations to protect people’s savings, and new laws to help workers and farmers. Roosevelt also used radio broadcasts called “Fireside Chats” to explain his plans directly to the public, helping to build trust and a sense of unity.

However, Roosevelt’s New Deal faced criticism and challenges. Some people believed the government was gaining too much power, while others thought the programs did not go far enough to help the poor. Despite these debates, the New Deal changed the relationship between the government and its citizens. For the first time, the federal government took a leading role in supporting the economy and providing aid to those in need.

Roosevelt’s election and the New Deal did not end the Great Depression right away, but they offered hope and real changes for millions. His willingness to experiment, communicate, and take action made a lasting impact on American society and government.

Interesting Fact: Franklin D. Roosevelt was the only U.S. president elected to four terms, serving from 1933 to 1945.

Who was elected president in 1932?

Franklin D. RooseveltHerbert HooverWoodrow WilsonJohn F. Kennedy

What was the Great Depression?

A warAn economic crisisA new lawA holiday

What did the New Deal promise?

Relief, recovery, reformsTax increasesMore warsLess government help

How did Roosevelt inspire hope?

By ignoring problemsThrough optimism and speechesBy raising taxesBy closing schools

Why was the New Deal important?

It changed government’s roleIt ended all problemsIt made people richIt was unpopular

What did Fireside Chats do?