Chapter 12 – last section One more major New Deal Program – the

TVA (Tennessee Valley Authority) The TVA built several dams in one of the

poorest areas of the country (Tenn. Valley) This meant jobs, flood control, and power

plants (making electricity) for millions in 7 states.

FDR’s Second Term In 1936, FDR ran for a second term against

Alfred Landon of Kansas. Due to the new deal programs, many

groups of voters who had always voted Republican started voting Democratic:

African Americans, many southerners, many women and other minorities.

FDR easily wins.

FDR and minorities Positive: FDR and Eleanor were civil rights

supporters –esp. Eleanor African Americans did get New Deal jobs and

some jobs in FDR’s cabinet. Women also benefited from some ND programs

and Frances Perkins was the Secretary of Labor Negative: no new civil rights laws passed and

women were still paid less than men, even for the same jobs

Problems for FDR Background – the Supreme Court ruled some of

FDRs earlier New Deal programs were unconstitutional. This angered FDR who thought that many judges were too old.

FDR suggests that the structure of the Supreme Court be changed – add one more justice for every one over 70 who won’t retire. This might mean 6 new judges in a short time

Most people thought this was a bad idea – it was a big political blunder for FDR – the plan was dropped.

Recession of 1937 By 1937, it looked like the economy had almost

recovered. To save money, FDR cuts $$ from the WPA. This plus the new spending for Soc. Sec. Pushes

the economy into recession – a step backwards. By 1938, govt. spending for jobs programs is

increased again.

The last New Deal Programs The US Housing Authority – goal to build

low-cost housing. The Farm Security Administration – gave

loans to tenant farmers so they could buy small farms

Fair Labor Standards Act – abolished child labor, set work week at 44 hours and the first minimum wage – 25 cents/hour.

Lasting Effects of the New Deal 1. The govt. is expected to take and active

role in the economy – esp. during bad times.

2. The Govt. should provide some security for people who can’t help themselves and during hard times.

3. The size of the Govt. increased and has remained larger.

The New Deal is still with us today in some ways Agencies like FDIC, the SEC and TVA are

still here today Social Security has grown and is available

all Americans at some time. Unemployment Ins, minimum wage etc… Many buildings, roads, dams etc….