The Great Depression 3 - New Deal, New York

Name: The Great Depression 3 - New Deal, New York
Uploaded: 2012-10-13T15:22:56.000Z
Duration: 1 h 46 min 47 s

The Struggles and Changes in New York City During the Great Depression

Arrival in New York City

The speaker expresses excitement about visiting New York City, describing it as beautiful and vibrant. They arrived in 1933, noting its status as the largest city in America with over 7 million residents.

Economic Challenges

Despite its grandeur, New York was facing significant economic turmoil; banks were failing, leading to a loss of confidence in capitalism among Americans. This crisis affected ordinary people's dreams and savings.

Urban Landscape and Living Conditions

The city was characterized by modern skyscrapers but also faced congestion due to outdated infrastructure designed for horse-drawn carriages, now overwhelmed by 800,000 cars daily. Ferries were still essential for commuting.

A stark contrast existed between wealth on Fifth Avenue and the living conditions of one-third of New Yorkers who resided in tenements, often overcrowded with immigrants from Europe seeking better lives. The lack of affordable housing highlighted systemic issues within the city.

Demographic Shifts

Harlem emerged as the largest Black community in the U.S., with an influx of Black individuals from the South and Caribbean during this period. The Great Depression severely impacted these communities, creating a shared sense of hardship among all residents regardless of background.

Political Advocacy

Congressman Fiorello LaGuardia advocated for urban poor relief amidst rising competition for scarce resources during the depression. His commitment to improving labor conditions and housing marked him as a notable figure against prevailing Republican policies under President Hoover.

Transitioning Leadership

Following his defeat in Congress amid a Democratic landslide, LaGuardia returned to find many homeless people living in shanties across New York City but remained determined to support Roosevelt's New Deal initiatives that could benefit the city’s residents.

Roosevelt's Inauguration: A Turning Point

Historical Context

The transition from President Hoover to President Roosevelt marked a significant moment; Roosevelt sought broad executive powers to address national crises akin to wartime measures against foreign threats. This indicated his proactive approach towards governance during emergencies.

Public Sentiment Post-Inauguration

An unprecedented energy filled Washington after Roosevelt's inauguration; there was a palpable sense of urgency and optimism among citizens who believed he would effectively tackle their problems through decisive action and leadership style that resonated deeply with them.

Restoring Confidence Through Action

Banking Crisis Response

As Americans rushed to withdraw funds amid banking system instability, Roosevelt implemented a nationwide bank holiday followed by an emergency banking bill that authorized $2 billion to stabilize deposits—an effort aimed at restoring public trust in financial institutions.

Fireside Chats: Direct Communication

Roosevelt utilized radio broadcasts known as "fireside chats" to communicate directly with citizens about government actions taken during crises while fostering unity against fear—a technique that made people feel connected and informed about their government's efforts on their behalf.

Impact of the New Deal Programs

Immediate Effects on Employment

In response to widespread unemployment caused by the Great Depression, Roosevelt's administration launched several programs including job creation initiatives like the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), which employed 250,000 young men for environmental restoration projects across America—demonstrating immediate governmental intervention aimed at alleviating economic distress among citizens.

Roosevelt's Shift to Direct Federal Relief

The Need for Change

Roosevelt initially favored work relief over welfare checks but recognized the urgent need for direct federal relief to prevent starvation among millions. This marked a significant shift in government policy, as it was unprecedented for the federal government to distribute relief funds directly.

Harry Hopkins and the Emergency Relief Act

President Roosevelt appointed Harry Hopkins to manage $500 million allocated by Congress under the Emergency Relief Act of 1933, aimed at assisting 18 million individuals affected by the Depression. In his first two hours, Hopkins distributed $5 million in relief funds.

Young Enthusiasm and Commitment

A group of young workers involved in the Federal Emergency Relief Administration (F.E.R.A.) felt deeply committed to their roles, believing that their efforts were crucial for global recovery. Their dedication blurred lines between work and personal life, reflecting a passionate engagement with their mission.

The National Recovery Administration (NRA)

Promoting Economic Solidarity

The NRA represented a diverse coalition of Americans united under a common goal during an economic crisis, showcasing solidarity through a massive parade in New York City in September 1933. This event highlighted the government's commitment to economic recovery efforts.

Goals and Achievements of the NRA

Roosevelt described the NRA as a partnership between government and industry aimed at establishing fair profit levels for businesses and wage standards for laborers. Over two million employers pledged compliance with NRA codes, indicating widespread support for these initiatives.

Impact on Workers' Rights

The NRA facilitated workers' rights by supporting union formation and collective bargaining, leading garment workers in New York City to secure better wages and working conditions through organized efforts under its framework.

Criticism of Roosevelt's New Deal

Opposition from Senator Thomas Gore

Not all were supportive of Roosevelt’s policies; Senator Thomas Gore criticized government regulation as excessive and opposed what he viewed as bureaucratic overreach associated with programs like the NRA. His perspective reflected concerns about centralized power within government structures.

Challenges with Tammany Hall

As governor of New York, Roosevelt faced challenges collaborating with Tammany Hall's corrupt political machine while implementing New Deal programs, highlighting tensions between reform efforts and entrenched political interests in city governance.

Corruption in New York City Politics

Tammany Hall's Influence

Tammany Hall dominated city politics during this era, characterized by corruption that hindered progress on essential projects like the Triboro Bridge due to mismanagement of funds intended for public works initiatives.

Investigations into Corruption

Judge Samuel Seabury led investigations into graft within New York’s magistrates’ courts that expanded into broader inquiries into city governance corruption, ultimately resulting in significant political fallout including Mayor Walker facing charges related to misconduct.

Political Shifts Following Scandals

Emergence of Reform Movements

The Fusion Party emerged as a response to rampant corruption within Tammany Hall, uniting anti-Tammany Democrats and Republicans around former Congressman Fiorello LaGuardia as their mayoral candidate during elections following Walker’s resignation amid scandalous allegations against him.

LaGuardia's Vision for New York City

LaGuardia's Approach to Governance

LaGuardia emphasized a grassroots approach, stating that the people would run the city and promising a reorganization of city government post-January 1st.

He was known for his ability to connect with diverse groups, speaking their languages and integrating into their communities quickly.

His early career as an interpreter at Ellis Island equipped him with language skills that he utilized effectively during his campaigns.

The Political Landscape During LaGuardia's Election

Acknowledging the pressing issues of hunger, unemployment, and disease, LaGuardia focused on these "real enemies" rather than political adversaries.

Following his election victory, he engaged in discussions with the Roosevelt administration to address the economic crisis affecting New York City.

Employment Initiatives and Challenges

In response to high unemployment rates, LaGuardia collaborated on the Civil Works Administration program which aimed to create jobs for millions.

Despite securing significant job opportunities for New Yorkers, there were allegations of discrimination in hiring practices within these programs.

Impact on City Employment Practices

While some new job opportunities emerged through federal programs, systemic biases led to unequal employment outcomes for Black individuals seeking work.

Conversely, LaGuardia successfully opened up positions for Italians and Jews who had previously been marginalized by Tammany Hall politics.

Reforming City Government

Committed to ending corruption in city governance, LaGuardia demanded accountability from city employees and sought capable individuals for key positions.

He appointed Robert Moses as parks commissioner; their partnership aimed at ambitious urban development projects despite Moses' strong-willed nature.

Public Works Administration (PWA)

Under PWA leadership by Harold Ickes, significant funding was allocated towards public works projects across states including roads and housing developments in New York.

This collaboration between LaGuardia and Moses resulted in transformative infrastructure projects that reshaped New York City's landscape.

Conflict and Community in New York's Depression Era

The Tensions Between LaGuardia and Moses

LaGuardia's support for the project was contingent on Robert Moses' persistence; if they didn't want it, his insistence made them wish for an emergency to remove him.

Moses had a long-standing feud with Franklin Roosevelt, which complicated LaGuardia's plans. He openly insulted Roosevelt and Eleanor, leading to calls for his dismissal from the president.

Despite pressure from Roosevelt, Moses refused to resign, showcasing his stubbornness amidst political tensions.

Economic Struggles in Harlem

Federal funding cuts initiated by Roosevelt threatened jobs in New York City, particularly impacting Harlem where unemployment reached 50%. This situation highlighted the dire economic conditions faced by the community.

The local economy was characterized by racial segregation; black residents were largely excluded from employment opportunities within their own community. Stores on 125th Street were predominantly white-owned and staffed.

Activism: "Don't Buy Where You Can't Work"

The campaign emerged as a response to economic disparities, urging black residents to demand job opportunities from local store owners who profited from their patronage without hiring them. This slogan encapsulated their struggle for economic justice.

Various groups participated in this movement, including church and civic organizations led by figures like Adam Clayton Powell Jr., who sought to unify efforts against racial discrimination in employment.

Community Response and Challenges

Mistrust towards City Hall grew among Harlem residents due to perceived neglect of their needs; grassroots activism included direct appeals to local businesses for fair hiring practices.

Despite some successes in pressuring merchants, legal challenges arose against picketing efforts that ultimately undermined the campaign’s momentum and deepened mistrust of city officials.

Relief Efforts Amidst Growing Needs

By fall 1934, one in seven families relied on relief assistance as daily applications surged; many families struggled with basic sustenance during this period of hardship.

LaGuardia implemented new taxes aimed at supporting relief efforts but faced criticism regarding government intervention during a time when many felt abandoned by bureaucratic systems amid rising national debt concerns under Roosevelt’s administration.

Reflections on Governance and Reform

LaGuardia's administration was seen as reformative yet experimental; he emphasized caring for those affected by unemployment through significant financial commitments despite facing broader criticisms of New Deal policies at the federal level.

The ongoing debate about government roles highlighted concerns over bureaucratic management versus self-governance among citizens during challenging economic times as opposition mounted against programs like the NRA (National Recovery Administration).

The Impact of the NRA on Small Businesses and Communities

Critique of the NRA's Influence

The National Recovery Administration (NRA) is criticized for increasing prices and reducing production, favoring large businesses over smaller competitors. A tire business owner expresses that he is worse off now than ever due to NRA regulations.

The NRA is referred to derogatorily as the "Negro run-around," highlighting its failure to provide equitable job opportunities despite hard work. This sentiment culminated in a significant legal challenge by the Schechter Brothers against NRA codes.

Supreme Court Ruling and Its Consequences

The Supreme Court declared many NRA codes unconstitutional, leading to the suspension of nearly 800 regulations. This decision marked a significant setback for thousands of workers associated with the NRA.

Despite Roosevelt's optimistic promises at his inauguration, the continued economic struggles indicated that the New Deal programs, including those from the NRA, had not succeeded in alleviating the Great Depression.

Tensions in Harlem and Community Frustrations

Disappointment arose when it was revealed that major public works projects like the Triborough Bridge would not hire black workers, exacerbating existing racial tensions within Harlem.

Many unions discriminated against black workers, leading to severe disillusionment among Harlem residents who felt excluded from economic benefits intended for their community.

Escalation of Community Unrest

Long-standing issues with police brutality contributed to rising frustrations in Harlem. In spring 1935, rumors about police mistreatment sparked widespread unrest.

A specific incident involving a young boy allegedly beaten by store owners ignited riots throughout Harlem as community members expressed their anger through violence.

Aftermath and Response from Leadership

The riot was seen as an inevitable outcome given community tensions; it served as a wake-up call for local leaders like LaGuardia regarding Harlem's dire conditions.

Following the unrest, LaGuardia took action by appointing Harlem’s first black magistrate and initiating public works projects aimed at benefiting black residents, marking a shift towards addressing systemic inequalities.

LaGuardia's Commitment to Harlem and Integration

LaGuardia's Initial Approach

LaGuardia was initially hesitant to prioritize Harlem but dedicated more resources to the black community, including hosting a dinner at Gracie Mansion.

The dinner featured an audience that supported integration, leading one department store owner, who had resisted integration, to reconsider his stance.

Employment Initiatives

LaGuardia called for increased employment opportunities within the community and emphasized hiring individuals from diverse racial backgrounds without directly condemning discrimination.

His administration marked the beginning of opening City Hall to broader representation under a mayor of Italian and Jewish descent.

The Role of the WPA in Economic Recovery

Federal Support and Job Creation

By the end of the decade, there was a reluctant acknowledgment of influence from the black community; however, significant power for change resided in Washington.

The Works Progress Administration (WPA), created by Roosevelt, prohibited discrimination and became a major employer during this period.

Impact on Society

The WPA facilitated job creation for many individuals who might have otherwise lost their skills due to unemployment.

It funded essential services like hot lunches for poor children and daycare for working mothers while also supporting artists across America.

Roosevelt's Influence on New York City

Financial Support from Roosevelt

By 1936, New York City received a substantial portion of the WPA budget; Roosevelt humorously noted how LaGuardia managed to secure additional funding through emotional appeals.

Infrastructure Development

Under LaGuardia’s leadership alongside Robert Moses, New York underwent modernization with projects like the West Side Highway and new public housing units contributing significantly to urban development.

Legacy of Government Partnerships

Dedication of Major Projects

On July 11th, 1936, President Roosevelt dedicated significant infrastructure projects such as bridges that symbolized progress in New York City.

Addressing Urban Needs

There was an emphasis on government responsibility towards environmental issues and urban needs like slum clearance and education facilities.

Roosevelt and LaGuardia: A Transformative Partnership

Saving Capitalism

Roosevelt is credited with saving capitalism during challenging times despite criticisms; he provided hope to those considered downtrodden by addressing their needs through government intervention.

Enduring Legacy

The partnership between Roosevelt and LaGuardia significantly transformed New York City’s landscape while expanding governmental roles in American society. Their impact continues to be felt decades later.