Franklin D Roosevelt Election 1932: New Hope — Reading Comprehension

The presidential election of 1932 marked a turning point in American history. By this year, the United States was suffering through the Great Depression, a period of severe economic hardship beginning in 1929. Millions of people lost their jobs, banks failed, and families struggled to afford food and shelter. The current president, Herbert Hoover, was criticized for not doing enough to solve these problems. Many Americans felt desperate and wanted a leader with new ideas.

Franklin D. Roosevelt, known as FDR, ran for president as the Democratic candidate. Roosevelt promised a “New Deal” to help the nation recover. His campaign focused on hope, relief, and government action. Unlike Hoover, who believed in limited government intervention, Roosevelt argued that the federal government should take a more active role in the economy. This difference in philosophy was a key issue in the election.

Many voters supported Roosevelt because they believed he would create jobs and restore confidence. In his speeches, FDR inspired optimism. He famously said in his inaugural address, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” This quote reflected his belief that courage and unity could help Americans overcome the crisis. Roosevelt’s words gave hope to those who felt powerless.

However, not everyone agreed with Roosevelt’s approach. Some business leaders and conservative politicians worried that the New Deal would give the government too much control over the economy. They feared it might threaten individual liberty and private business. Others believed Roosevelt’s plans would not go far enough to help the poorest Americans, such as minorities and rural workers, who often faced discrimination and poverty even before the Depression.

Despite these concerns, Roosevelt won a landslide victory in November 1932. He carried 42 out of 48 states. The election results showed that most Americans wanted dramatic change. When FDR took office in March 1933, he quickly began to implement New Deal programs. These included creating public works jobs, providing financial support to farmers, and reforming banks to prevent future crises.

Roosevelt’s election and the New Deal brought significant changes to the government’s relationship with its citizens. Many people benefited from new opportunities and a sense of security. At the same time, some Americans continued to debate the proper role of government in a free society. The 1932 election revealed deep conflicts about values, such as freedom versus security and tradition versus change.

Historians now recognize the 1932 election as a watershed moment. It set the stage for modern American politics and reshaped the federal government’s role. While Roosevelt’s leadership gave hope to millions, it also sparked ongoing debates that still influence American society today.

Interesting Fact: During the 1932 campaign, Franklin D. Roosevelt traveled more than 13,000 miles by train to meet voters across the country.

Who won the 1932 election?

What was the New Deal?

What crisis affected the 1932 election?

Why did some oppose the New Deal?

What did FDR say about fear?

What was a key election issue?

FDR started New Deal programs. True or false?

What does 'watershed' mean?