Module 2: The Three Rs

The Three Rs

The New Deal, introduced by President Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) in response to the Great Depression, was built around the "Three Rs": relief, recovery, and reform. Relief programs aimed to provide immediate assistance to those suffering from the economic downturn, focusing on direct support for individuals and families. Initiatives such as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the Works Progress Administration (WPA) were designed to create jobs and offer financial aid, helping millions of Americans who were unemployed and struggling to make ends meet. By prioritizing relief, the New Deal sought to alleviate the immediate suffering caused by the Great Depression, restoring hope and dignity to those affected.

Recovery was the second pillar of the New Deal, focusing on stimulating the economy and promoting growth. FDR implemented various programs aimed at revitalizing industries and agriculture, such as the National Industrial Recovery Act (NIRA) and the Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA). These initiatives sought to raise prices, reduce unemployment, and foster economic activity by supporting both businesses and farmers. The recovery aspect of the New Deal emphasized the importance of restoring economic stability and ensuring that the nation could emerge from the depths of the Depression, setting the stage for a more sustainable future.

Finally, reform was a critical component of the New Deal, aimed at preventing future economic crises and addressing systemic issues in American society. FDR’s administration sought to establish safeguards through regulations and legislation, such as the Social Security Act and the Securities Exchange Act, which aimed to protect workers and consumers. By focusing on reform, the New Deal sought not only to address the immediate impacts of the Great Depression but also to create a more equitable and resilient economic system. Together, the Three Rs of the New Deal transformed the role of the federal government, laying the foundation for modern social safety nets and altering the relationship between the American public and their government for generations to come.