Compare and contrast the New Deal and the Great Society Under what conditions did the two reform efforts take place and how did these conditions influence them What were the key pieces of legislation?

Answer 1

The New Deal, initiated by Franklin D. Roosevelt in response to the Great Depression during the 1930s, focused on economic recovery, relief, and reform through programs like the Social Security Act and the National Industrial Recovery Act. In contrast, the Great Society, launched by Lyndon B. Johnson in the 1960s, aimed to address social issues such as poverty and civil rights during a time of economic prosperity and social upheaval, exemplified by legislation like the Civil Rights Act and Medicare. While both sought to expand the role of the federal government in improving citizens' lives, the New Deal primarily addressed economic crises, while the Great Society focused on social welfare and equality. The differing conditions—economic desperation versus social unrest—shaped their goals and legislative focus.