Question

Big government was ushered in during the \- (LO4) a) \(1920 \mathrm{~s}\) c) \(1960 \mathrm{~s}\) b) \(1930 \mathrm{~s}\) d) \(1980 \mathrm{~s}\)

Short answer

b) \(1930 \mathrm{~s}\)

Step-by-step solution

Understand the concept of "Big Government"

"Big Government" refers to a government that is highly involved in various aspects of society, including economic, social, and political affairs. This involvement often includes significant government spending, regulation, and intervention.

Identify the historical period when Big Government was ushered in

In the United States, the concept of Big Government gained popularity during the Great Depression, which occurred in the 1930s. The government, under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, implemented a series of policies and programs known as the New Deal to combat the economic crisis and provide relief to millions of Americans. These interventions significantly expanded the role of the federal government in the nation's economy and society.

Choose the correct answer

Based on the historical context, we can infer that Big Government was ushered in during the \(1930 \mathrm{~s}\). Thus, the correct answer is: b) \(1930 \mathrm{~s}\).

Key concepts

Big Government

"Big Government" is a term that signifies a government with a significant influence over various facets of society. This can include everything from economic affairs to social welfare issues. The government becomes deeply involved in several sectors, including healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

The idea often comes with increased government spending to support these areas as well as the introduction of various regulations. This involvement can be driven by the need to solve large-scale issues that affect a country or its citizens. While some people view big government as essential for fostering social good and economic stability, others see it as overreach that can stifle personal freedoms and the flexibility of the market.

Understanding Big Government also involves discussing how and why the government would intervene. Typically, big government actions are justified in times of economic strife or war when the private sector alone cannot effectively address the needs of the population.

New Deal

The New Deal was a series of programs and reforms introduced by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in response to the Great Depression. This era of reform aimed to provide immediate relief to those suffering, as well as foster economic recovery.

Some of the New Deal initiatives included:

• Federal Emergency Relief Act (FERA) - aimed at providing direct relief for the unemployed.
• Public Works Administration (PWA) - focused on large-scale public works construction projects to create jobs.
• Social Security Act - established a system of old-age benefits for workers, victims of industrial accidents, and unemployment insurance.

These programs not only provided for immediate needs but also laid the groundwork for long-term social reforms. By channeling investment into public works projects and social welfare, the New Deal radically changed the relationship between the government and the American people, marking a durable shift towards Big Government in the U.S.

Franklin D. Roosevelt

Franklin D. Roosevelt, commonly referred to as FDR, was the 32nd president of the United States, serving from 1933 to 1945. He played a critical role during two of the most challenging periods in U.S. history: the Great Depression and World War II.

Roosevelt was a driving force behind the concept of Big Government, as he believed in strong federal intervention to help steer the nation through its economic and social challenges. Under Roosevelt’s leadership, the government took on a far greater role, providing support and oversight in ways that were unprecedented at the time. His administration's New Deal enacted widespread government reforms and social programs geared towards economic recovery and reshaping the American social landscape.

Ultimately, FDR's policies and approaches not only addressed immediate challenges but also set a precedent for future government intervention in times of crisis. This has left a lasting impact on American political and economic policy.