Do Now!1. Identify Dr. Francis Townsend

2. Identify Huey “the kingfish” Long

Critique of the New Deal

Chapter 22

Conservative critics (American Liberty League)– Complained that New Deal policies destroyed free-

enterprise and were unconstitutional Are these justifiably challenges?

Liberal critics (Dr. Francis E. Townsend) “Townsend Plan”

– Say that New Deal did not go far enough – Wanted the government to give $200 a month to the elderly

Eventually inspires FDR to come up with Social Security – Why might FDR be careful not to enact more radical changes?

– Senator Huey Long and Share-Our-Wealth (home and income for all)

The Second New Deal

Democrats win even more seats in congress in 1934– More reforms (wages, hours, social security,

public-works) Heavier focus on long term reform

Second New Deal continued…

Works Progress Administration (WPA)—helps people find jobs

– Bridges, airports, buildings are built/repaired What does this do for those people/the economy?

Social Security Act—1935 – Unemployment pay– Pensions for retired workers over 65 (payroll tax on

employers/employees)– Payments for people with disabilities (and Widows/children)

How does this help people? How does it help the economy? Revenue Act—1935 (AKA Wealth Act)—taxes richest

Americans

Roosevelt vs. Supreme Court

1936—Roosevelt is re-elected (wins every state but Maine and Vermont)

Six of the nine justices were over 70 years old– “Nine old men” “stuck in the horse and buggy”

What does he mean by this? Would you agree? FDR wanted the power to replace all justices over 70

– Congress rejects—many see it as upsetting the balance of power

However they begin to die/retire and by 1945 eight of nine are Roosevelt’s (only US president to serve more than 2 terms, serves 4, 1933-45)

Recession/Lasting Effects

Wagner-Connery Act—ensured labor’s right to organize to better working conditions

Roosevelt’s Recession—1936 (fixed by 1938)– People start to see less of a need for excessive

government spending