The New Deal is the name given to a series of economic programs initiated by FDR and his administration to improve the American economy that continued to be mired in the Great Depression. In his inaugural address, Roosevelt promised a “new deal” for the “forgotten people.”

The New Deal focused on relief, recovery, and reform. It consisted of the creation of the Social Security system, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and the Civilian Conservation Corps, which gave jobs to many unemployed young men. Another law passed as part of the New Deal was the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, which provide better working conditions for laborers.

Roosevelt garnered popular support for many of his New Deal programs through a series of speeches to the American public known as the “Fireside Chats.” Roosevelt gave thirty “Fireside Chats” during 1933 and 1934. They contributed greatly to the popularity of the president and showcased his leadership skills.