Oppostion to the First New Deal Flashcards
What was the opposition to the New Deal from the Right?
The Right argued that increasing taxes on the wealthy fell heavily on them and opposed too much government interference in the economy, mainly due to increased taxes.
Which opposition group was Roosevelt most concerned about
The left , as left wing groups could join to form a third party to challenge him in the next election
What was the “Share our Wealth Campaign”
In 1934 Senator Huey Long advocated for all private fortunes over 3 million to be confiscated so every family could get a house, car and radio
What did Huey Long want to provide
house, car, and radio for every family, and old-age pensions, minimum wages so every family guaranteed $2000-$3000/yr + free college education for all suitable candidates
How popular were Huey Long’s ideas
Popular with 4.6 million members across the state
What happened to Huey Long
He was assassinated in Sept 1935, as he was running in the presidential election with 4 million considering voting for him (R.?)
What was the Old Age Revolving Pensions idea
Francis Townsend suggested all over 60’s given $200/month with the understanding they’d spend it all, boosting economy and having more over 60’s retire opening jobs for the youth
Who created the Old Age Revolving Pensions idea
Francis Townsend
How popular were Francis Townsend’s ideas
500,000 people supported it, but it was totally impractical
Who was Father Charles Coughlin
A priest who’s radio programme The Golden Hour of the Little Flower was hugely popular and he argued for redistribution of wealth
How many people listened to Father Charles Coughlin
20-40 million
What did Father Charles Coughlin found
In 1934 he founded the National Union for Social Injustice. Roosevelt was afraid of him and a possible alliance between Coughlin and Long
Why did Father Charles Coughlin’s popularity decline
He became increasingly anti-semetic
