Summary: The New Deal was, and continues to be, controversial. Some view it as a revolution that has forever changed the relationship between the federal government and the people. Others view it as a reform to help fix a system that was broken. Students will carefully analyze primary source documents about the New Deal, then consider the definitions of revolution and reform,and decide whether each primary source document reflects the New Deal as a revolution or a reform. After reading the details that accompany the document, students place the document on the scale according to which definition it best supports.
Overarching Questions:
- CIVICS: How well does the government balance individual rights and the common good, including the need to maintain order, safety and a healthy environment, during this time period?
- ECONOMICS: What is the proper role of government in the economy? (Especially with regard to economic crises, national defense/security, health and safety of the people, and economic development and practices.)
NJ Student Learning Standards for Social Studies:
- 6.1.12.CivicsPR.10.b: Assess the effectiveness of governmental policies enacted during the New Deal period in protecting the welfare of individuals (i.e., FDIC, NLRB, and Social Security).
- 6.1.12.EconEM.10.a: Construct a claim that evaluates short- and long-term impact of the expanded role of government on economic policy, capitalism, and society.
- 6.1.12.EconNE.10.a: Evaluate the effectiveness of economic regulations and standards established during this time period in combating the Great Depression.
Link to Lesson: The New Deal: Revolution or Reform? | DocsTeach