Lecture on the Opposition to the New Deal

Introduction

• The New Deal was a set of programs introduced by Franklin D. Roosevelt aimed at bringing America out of the Great Depression.
• Despite its intentions, the New Deal faced opposition from both the political left and right.

Opposition from the Right

• Conservatives' Concerns:
  • Belief that the presidency was becoming too powerful.
  • Viewed as socialist due to government regulation of private enterprise.
  • Concerns about discouraging work ethic due to government aid.
  • Seen as unconstitutional and infringing on states’ rights.
• Lack of Popular Support:
  • Criticism from wealthy individuals without broad public backing.

Opposition from the Left

• Belief of Ineffectiveness:
  • New Deal seen as inadequate in addressing issues, like helping farmers and the elderly.
  • Wealth gap remained a significant issue.
• More Popular Support:
  • Leftist critics had a substantial following and influence on public opinion.

Notable Opponents

Father Charles Coughlin

• Catholic priest from Detroit known for his radio program, "Golden Hour of the Little Flower."
• Criticized the wealth gap and advocated for nationalizing major industries.
• Anti-banker and anti-Semitic views diminished his following by the late 1930s.

Dr. Francis Townsend

• Advocated for the Townsend Plan: $200 monthly pension for unemployed seniors, funded by a 2% sales tax.
• Criticized FDR for inadequate old-age pensions, influenced the creation of the Social Security Act.

Huey Long

• Louisiana political figure with his "Share Our Wealth" plan, which proposed a minimum household income.
• Advocated for high taxes on the wealthy to fund income redistribution.
• Seen as a threat by FDR but was assassinated in 1935.

Supreme Court Opposition

• Conservative Justices:
  • Four justices, known as the "Four Horsemen," opposed the New Deal.
  • Ruled against major New Deal programs like the National Industrial Recovery Administration and Agricultural Adjustment Act.
• Judicial Reorganization Bill:
  • FDR’s attempt to increase the number of Supreme Court justices, criticized as "court-packing."
  • Ultimately not passed, but the court eventually became more favorable to the New Deal after retirements.

Conclusion

• The New Deal faced significant opposition from both sides of the political spectrum.
• Various individuals and groups had differing reasons for opposing the New Deal’s policies.

Additional Resources

• Check Moodle for more videos or resources on New Deal opposition.
• Students can ask questions in class or comment below the video.