1.
During the 1932 presidential campaign, the Republican and Democratic candidates both promised generally to balance the budget.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
During the 1932 presidential campaign, both the Republican and Democratic candidates made promises to balance the budget. This suggests that both parties recognized the importance of fiscal responsibility and aimed to address the issue of budget deficits. By promising to balance the budget, they were appealing to voters who were concerned about the economic stability of the country. This also reflects the prevailing belief at the time that a balanced budget was essential for the overall well-being of the nation.
2.
The Twentieth Amendment moved the presidential inauguration date from March to January.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The Twentieth Amendment, also known as the Lame Duck Amendment, was ratified in 1933 and it indeed moved the presidential inauguration date from March 4th to January 20th. This change was made to reduce the long period of time between the election and inauguration, known as the "lame duck" period, during which an outgoing president with limited power remained in office. The amendment aimed to ensure a more efficient transition of power and address the potential issues that could arise during this extended period.
3.
Early in his presidency, Roosevelt carried through on his promise to end Prohibition.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
During his presidency, Roosevelt fulfilled his promise to put an end to Prohibition. This indicates that he took action to repeal the 18th Amendment, which had banned the production, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages in the United States. As a result, it can be inferred that the statement "Early in his presidency, Roosevelt carried through on his promise to end Prohibition" is true.
4.
The CCC addressed the problem of overcharging by doctors and others in the medical and health professions.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because the CCC, or the Civilian Conservation Corps, was a program implemented during the Great Depression in the United States. It focused on providing employment opportunities to young, unemployed men in conservation projects such as reforestation and soil erosion control. It did not address the problem of overcharging by doctors or others in the medical and health professions.
5.
John Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath told of Wall Street businessmen brought to their knees after Black Tuesday.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because John Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath does not tell the story of Wall Street businessmen being brought to their knees after Black Tuesday. Instead, the novel focuses on the struggles and hardships faced by a family during the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl. It explores the themes of poverty, migration, and the exploitation of workers, but it does not specifically revolve around Wall Street businessmen.
6.
The AAA required farmers to donate surplus crops and livestock to feed the poor.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because the AAA (Agricultural Adjustment Act) did not require farmers to donate surplus crops and livestock to feed the poor. The AAA was a New Deal program introduced in the 1930s to address the issue of overproduction in agriculture. It aimed to increase farm income by reducing agricultural production and raising crop prices. Farmers were paid subsidies to reduce their production, but there was no requirement to donate surplus crops and livestock to feed the poor.
7.
By 1935, the NRA had become unpopular.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The National Recovery Administration (NRA) was created as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal program during the Great Depression. Initially, the NRA was seen as a promising solution to stimulate economic recovery and regulate business practices. However, over time, it faced criticism for its complex regulations and perceived favoritism towards big businesses. Additionally, some argued that the NRA did not effectively address the root causes of the economic crisis. As a result, by 1935, public opinion had turned against the NRA, making the statement "By 1935, the NRA had become unpopular" true.
8.
The American Liberty League opposed New Deal measures as violations of personal and property rights.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The American Liberty League opposed New Deal measures as violations of personal and property rights. This means that the organization believed that the policies and actions implemented under the New Deal were infringing on the rights of individuals and property owners. The league likely saw these measures as government overreach and interference in the economy and private lives of citizens. Therefore, the statement is true.
9.
FDR made black civil rights a major priority, ordering that New Deal programs not practice racial discrimination.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because while FDR did implement various programs to combat the Great Depression, he did not make black civil rights a major priority. In fact, many New Deal programs were implemented in a racially discriminatory manner, with black Americans often being excluded or receiving fewer benefits compared to white Americans. It was not until later in his presidency, under pressure from civil rights activists, that FDR began to address racial inequalities more directly.
10.
The Wagner Act helped dramatically boost union membership.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The Wagner Act, also known as the National Labor Relations Act, was a landmark legislation in the United States that protected the rights of employees to form and join labor unions. It established the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to enforce these rights and prevent unfair labor practices. By providing legal protections and support for unions, the Wagner Act played a significant role in increasing union membership. It gave workers the confidence to organize and collectively bargain for better wages, working conditions, and benefits. As a result, union membership saw a dramatic boost during this period.
11.
FDR called the Social Security Act the “supreme achievement” of the New Deal.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
FDR referred to the Social Security Act as the "supreme achievement" of the New Deal. This suggests that he believed it was the most significant and successful accomplishment of his administration's efforts to combat the Great Depression. The Social Security Act, passed in 1935, established a system of old-age benefits, unemployment insurance, and aid to dependent children, providing a safety net for vulnerable populations and promoting economic security. FDR's characterization of it as the "supreme achievement" indicates his high regard for its impact and importance.
12.
Eleanor Roosevelt was a shy person who shunned attention, but she did much work behind the scenes to raise support for her husband’s New Deal.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement suggests that Eleanor Roosevelt was a shy person who avoided attention, but still actively worked behind the scenes to garner support for her husband's New Deal. However, the correct answer is False, implying that the statement is not accurate.
13.
By the end of the 1930s, FDR’s New Deal had pushed the country a large way toward socialism.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because although FDR's New Deal implemented various social welfare programs, it did not push the country towards socialism. The New Deal aimed to alleviate the effects of the Great Depression through government intervention and regulation, but it did not fundamentally change the capitalist system or lead to the government ownership of industries. Socialism involves the collective ownership and control of the means of production, which was not the objective of the New Deal.
14.
Despite the New Deal, full recovery from the Depression did not come until the crisis of World War II.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true because although the New Deal implemented various economic and social programs to combat the Great Depression, it was not until the crisis of World War II that the economy fully recovered. The war stimulated industrial production and created jobs, leading to increased consumer spending and economic growth. The massive government spending during the war also helped to stimulate the economy and lift the country out of the Depression. Therefore, it can be concluded that the full recovery from the Depression occurred during the crisis of World War II.
15.
The Fair Labor Standards Act forbade racial discrimination in hiring.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) does not specifically address racial discrimination in hiring. Instead, it primarily focuses on setting standards for minimum wage, overtime pay, and child labor. Racial discrimination in hiring is prohibited under a different law, namely the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Therefore, the statement that the FLSA forbade racial discrimination in hiring is false.
16.
Franklin D. Roosevelt:
Correct Answer
A. Was permanently disabled after contracting polio
Explanation
Franklin D. Roosevelt was permanently disabled after contracting polio. This means that he suffered from the effects of polio for the rest of his life. This disability did not prevent him from becoming the 32nd President of the United States, as he served for four terms. Despite his physical limitations, Roosevelt was known for his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II. His disability also played a role in his advocacy for disability rights and social welfare programs, such as the New Deal.
17.
In the presidential election of 1932:
Correct Answer
A. Radical Socialist and Communist party candidates won nearly 1 million votes
Explanation
In the presidential election of 1932, the fact that radical Socialist and Communist party candidates won nearly 1 million votes suggests that there was a significant portion of the population who were dissatisfied with the mainstream political options and sought alternative ideologies. This could indicate a growing discontent with the economic and social conditions of the time, as well as a desire for more radical change. The success of these candidates highlights the diversity of political beliefs and the potential for third-party candidates to have an impact on the election outcome.
18.
Whose campaign song was “Happy Days Are Here Again”?
Correct Answer
D. Franklin D. Roosevelt
Explanation
The campaign song "Happy Days Are Here Again" was associated with Franklin D. Roosevelt. This song was used during his presidential campaign in 1932, and it became closely associated with his New Deal policies and the optimism he brought to the American people during the Great Depression. The song conveyed a message of hope and a promise of better times ahead, which resonated with the voters and helped Roosevelt win the election.
19.
The main purpose of the Civilian Conservation Corps was to:
Correct Answer
B. Provide work relief for young men
Explanation
The main purpose of the Civilian Conservation Corps was to provide work relief for young men. During the Great Depression, many young men were unemployed, and the CCC aimed to address this issue by offering them employment opportunities. The program focused on conservation projects such as reforestation, soil erosion prevention, and park development. By providing work relief, the CCC not only helped alleviate the economic hardships faced by young men but also contributed to the conservation and development of natural resources in the country.
20.
This organization sought to set workplace standards, such as child labor restrictions:
Correct Answer
C. NRA
Explanation
The correct answer is NRA, which stands for National Recovery Administration. The NRA was created as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal program during the Great Depression. Its main goal was to promote fair labor practices and set workplace standards, including restrictions on child labor. The NRA aimed to stabilize the economy by encouraging businesses to adopt codes of fair competition and improve working conditions. However, the NRA was eventually declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in 1935.
21.
All of the following writers but two (listed as a pair below) found work writing travel guides for the Federal Writers’ Project:
Correct Answer
D. Eugene O’Neil and Ernest Hemingway
22.
The goal of the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1933 was to raise farm income mainly through:
Correct Answer
A. Cutbacks in production
Explanation
The goal of the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1933 was to raise farm income mainly through cutbacks in production. By reducing the supply of agricultural products, the act aimed to increase their prices and therefore the income of farmers. This was achieved through various methods such as paying farmers to reduce their production, implementing quotas, and providing incentives for farmers to take land out of production. These measures were intended to stabilize the agricultural industry and alleviate the effects of the Great Depression on farmers.
23.
Among the objectives of the Tennessee Valley Authority were all the following EXCEPT:
Correct Answer
D. The development of Smoky Mountain National Park
Explanation
The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) was created in 1933 as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal program. Its main objectives were to provide cheap electric power, promote economic development, and improve the quality of life in the Tennessee Valley region. The TVA achieved these goals through the construction of dams for hydroelectric power generation, flood control measures, and navigation improvements on rivers. However, the development of Smoky Mountain National Park was not one of the objectives of the TVA. The park was established in 1934, a year after the creation of the TVA, and was primarily driven by the conservation efforts to protect the natural beauty of the area.
24.
Codes of fair practice were part of:
Correct Answer
C. NRA
Explanation
The correct answer is NRA. The National Recovery Administration (NRA) was a key component of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal program. It aimed to promote fair competition and improve labor conditions during the Great Depression. The NRA established codes of fair practice for businesses and industries, which included setting standards for wages, working hours, and production levels. These codes were meant to stabilize the economy and protect workers' rights.
25.
Huey Long:
Correct Answer
A. Developed a program called Share the Wealth
Explanation
Huey Long developed a program called Share the Wealth. This program aimed to redistribute wealth and reduce income inequality by implementing measures such as capping personal fortunes and income, providing a guaranteed minimum income, and ensuring free education and healthcare for all. Long believed that the New Deal, implemented by FDR, had gone too far in terms of government intervention and infringed on the rights of individuals and property owners. By developing Share the Wealth, Long presented an alternative vision for economic reform and challenged FDR for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1936.
26.
In the case of Schechter Poultry Corporation v. United States, the Supreme Court:
Correct Answer
B. Overturned the National Industrial Recovery Act
Explanation
In the case of Schechter Poultry Corporation v. United States, the Supreme Court overturned the National Industrial Recovery Act. The National Industrial Recovery Act was a key component of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal program, which aimed to regulate industry and promote fair competition during the Great Depression. However, the Supreme Court ruled that the Act was unconstitutional because it delegated excessive legislative power to the executive branch and violated the separation of powers. This decision had significant implications for the balance of power between the branches of government and the scope of federal regulation.
27.
The National Labor Relations Act:
Correct Answer
C. Was often called the Wagner Act
Explanation
The correct answer is "was often called the Wagner Act." The National Labor Relations Act, also known as the Wagner Act, was a landmark legislation in the United States that established the rights of employees to organize and bargain collectively through labor unions. It was enacted in 1935 and aimed to protect workers' rights and promote fair labor practices. The name "Wagner Act" comes from its primary sponsor, Senator Robert F. Wagner.
28.
Which of the following statements about the Social Security Act is NOT true?
Correct Answer
D. It was based on a progressive tax that took a larger percentage of higher incomes.
Explanation
The Social Security Act was not based on a progressive tax that took a larger percentage of higher incomes. Instead, it was funded through a regressive payroll tax, where a fixed percentage of income was deducted from workers' paychecks. This means that individuals with higher incomes did not contribute a larger percentage of their income towards the program.
29.
The Revenue Act of 1935 (sometimes called the Wealth-Tax Act):
Correct Answer
C. Raised taxes on incomes above $50,000
Explanation
The correct answer is "raised taxes on incomes above $50,000." The Revenue Act of 1935 increased taxes specifically on higher income earners, those making above $50,000. This measure aimed to generate more revenue for the federal government and help finance the New Deal programs. It did not create a more equal distribution of wealth or provide for a regressive tax.
30.
In the case of Norris v. Alabama, the Supreme Court:
Correct Answer
D. Ruled that the systematic exclusion of blacks from juries denied defendants equal protection of the law
Explanation
In Norris v. Alabama, the Supreme Court ruled that the systematic exclusion of blacks from juries denied defendants equal protection of the law. This means that the court found that the practice of excluding black individuals from juries was unconstitutional and violated the principle of equal protection under the law. The ruling aimed to ensure that all defendants, regardless of their race, have a fair and impartial trial by a jury of their peers.
31.
What made the dust storms worse than normal was the transition during the early twentieth century from:
Correct Answer
C. Widespread scattered subsistence farming to industrial agriculture
Explanation
The transition from widespread scattered subsistence farming to industrial agriculture made the dust storms worse than normal. Industrial agriculture involves large-scale farming practices that often result in the removal of natural vegetation and the use of heavy machinery, which can disturb the soil and lead to erosion. This transition would have led to increased soil degradation and loss of vegetation cover, making the land more susceptible to wind erosion and dust storms.
32.
In the presidential election of 1936:
Correct Answer
C. Republicans hoped that third-party candidates might split the Democratic vote and throw the election to them
Explanation
In the presidential election of 1936, the Republicans hoped that third-party candidates might split the Democratic vote and throw the election to them. This strategy is commonly used by political parties when they believe that they cannot win the election on their own. By having third-party candidates in the race, it can potentially divide the votes of the opposing party, making it easier for the Republicans to secure a victory.
33.
Roosevelt’s court-packing scheme became unnecessary when:
Correct Answer
D. The Supreme Court began reversing previous judgments and upHolding the New Deal
34.
The “sit-down strike” was used successfully in 1937 by:
Correct Answer
D. Automobile workers
Explanation
The "sit-down strike" was a tactic used by workers to protest and demand better working conditions. In 1937, automobile workers successfully utilized this strategy. They would occupy their workplace and refuse to leave until their demands were met. This method proved effective in gaining concessions from management, such as higher wages and improved working conditions.
35.
Labor’s new direction in the late 1930s was toward:
Correct Answer
B. Industrial unions
Explanation
In the late 1930s, labor shifted its focus towards industrial unions. This means that instead of organizing workers based on their specific trade or craft, labor unions began to organize workers across different industries. This shift allowed for a more unified and powerful labor movement, as it brought together workers from various sectors to fight for common goals such as better working conditions, higher wages, and improved benefits. Industrial unions played a crucial role in the growth and success of the labor movement during this period.
36.
The 1937 economic slump was caused in part by:
Correct Answer
A. A sharp decrease in government spending
Explanation
The correct answer is a sharp decrease in government spending. A decrease in government spending can lead to a decrease in overall economic activity, as less money is being injected into the economy. This can result in reduced consumer spending, business investment, and job creation. In the case of the 1937 economic slump, a sharp decrease in government spending likely contributed to the downturn by reducing the overall demand and economic growth.
37.
By the end of 1937, which group had coalesced against the New Deal?
Correct Answer
D. A bipartisan conservative bloc
Explanation
By the end of 1937, a bipartisan conservative bloc had formed against the New Deal. This group consisted of members from both political parties who shared conservative ideologies and opposed the policies and programs implemented by the New Deal. They believed in limited government intervention in the economy and were critical of the expansion of federal power under the New Deal. This bloc was united in their opposition to the New Deal and worked together to challenge and resist its implementation.
38.
In the elections of 1938:
Correct Answer
B. Roosevelt’s attempts to “purge” the Democratic party were largely unsuccessful
Explanation
In the elections of 1938, Roosevelt's attempts to "purge" the Democratic party were largely unsuccessful. This means that his efforts to remove or eliminate certain members of the party who did not align with his policies or beliefs did not have the desired outcome. Despite his attempts, the Democrats were still able to maintain a majority of only two in the Senate. This suggests that Roosevelt's efforts to reshape the party and consolidate power within it were met with resistance and were not as effective as he had hoped.
39.
The Farm Security Administration:
Correct Answer
B. Offered loans to marginal farmers (so they could avoid falling into tenancy) and to tenant farmers (so they could purchase their own farms)
Explanation
The Farm Security Administration offered loans to marginal farmers and tenant farmers to help them avoid falling into tenancy or to purchase their own farms. This support aimed to empower these farmers and provide them with opportunities for economic stability and independence. By providing financial assistance, the Farm Security Administration aimed to prevent the displacement of farmers and promote self-sufficiency within the agricultural community.
40.
The conservative Democratic opposition to the New Deal in the late 1930s:
Correct Answer
A. Was heaviest in the South
Explanation
The correct answer is "was heaviest in the South." This means that the opposition to the New Deal policies proposed by President Roosevelt during the late 1930s was strongest in the southern states of the United States. The conservative Democrats in this region were particularly resistant to the New Deal and its progressive policies, which aimed to address the effects of the Great Depression through government intervention and social welfare programs. This opposition in the South contributed to the challenges faced by Roosevelt in implementing his agenda.
41.
Charles E. Coughlin:
Correct Answer
A. Was the “radio priest”
Explanation
Charles E. Coughlin was known as the "radio priest" because he was a Catholic priest who gained popularity through his radio broadcasts in the 1930s. He used his platform to discuss political and economic issues, often expressing controversial views. Coughlin's radio show had a significant following and he was able to influence public opinion during that time.
42.
Who was the economist whose ideas provided a theoretical justification of the New Deal?
Correct Answer
D. John Maynard Keynes
Explanation
John Maynard Keynes was the economist whose ideas provided a theoretical justification of the New Deal. Keynesian economics, developed by Keynes, advocated for government intervention in the economy during times of recession or depression. The New Deal, implemented by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in response to the Great Depression, included various government programs and policies aimed at stimulating the economy and providing relief to those affected by the crisis. Keynes' theories, which emphasized the importance of government spending to boost aggregate demand and promote economic growth, aligned with the objectives of the New Deal.
43.
The Indian Reorganization Act:
Correct Answer
A. Attempted to reinvigorate traditional Indian cultures
Explanation
The Indian Reorganization Act aimed to revitalize traditional Indian cultures. This suggests that the act was implemented with the intention of preserving and promoting the cultural practices and traditions of Native American tribes. It did not involve breaking up tribal lands or allocating them to individuals, as stated in the other options. The act had the support of western congressmen and assimilated Indians, which implies that it was backed by influential individuals and groups. However, it was not the brainchild of Henry Dawes, as mentioned in the last option.
44.
The literary work that best captured the ordeal of the Depression was The Grapes of Wrath by:
Correct Answer
D. John Steinbeck
Explanation
John Steinbeck's novel, The Grapes of Wrath, is widely regarded as one of the most powerful and influential works that portrayed the hardships and struggles of the Great Depression. The novel follows the Joad family as they are forced to leave their home in Oklahoma due to economic hardships and travel to California in search of a better life. Steinbeck's vivid descriptions and compelling storytelling effectively captured the devastating effects of the Depression on ordinary people, making it a seminal work of literature that resonates with readers to this day.
45.
Richard Wright:
Correct Answer
C. Wrote Native Son, a story of racial prejudice
Explanation
Richard Wright is known for writing Native Son, a powerful novel that explores the theme of racial prejudice. The book tells the story of Bigger Thomas, a young African American man living in poverty in Chicago, who becomes involved in a series of violent crimes. Through this story, Wright sheds light on the systemic racism and social injustice faced by Black Americans in the early 20th century. The novel is considered a classic of African American literature and a significant contribution to the Civil Rights Movement.
46.
Just before his election to the presidency in 1932, Franklin D. Roosevelt was serving as:
Correct Answer
C. Governor of New York
Explanation
Before his election to the presidency in 1932, Franklin D. Roosevelt was serving as the governor of New York.
47.
At the outset of his presidency, to deal with the banking crisis, Roosevelt:
Correct Answer
D. Declared a bank holiday, shutting the banks down briefly
Explanation
During the banking crisis at the beginning of his presidency, Roosevelt declared a bank holiday, which involved temporarily shutting down the banks. This measure aimed to prevent further panic and runs on the banks, giving the government time to assess the situation and implement necessary reforms. By closing the banks, Roosevelt aimed to restore public confidence in the banking system and create a stable environment for addressing the crisis effectively.
48.
The social worker who headed the WPA at its creation in 1935 was:
Correct Answer
D. Harry Hopkins
Explanation
Harry Hopkins was the social worker who headed the Works Progress Administration (WPA) at its creation in 1935. The WPA was a key component of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal programs, aimed at providing employment opportunities for millions of Americans during the Great Depression. Hopkins played a crucial role in implementing the WPA and overseeing its various projects, which included the construction of public buildings, roads, and bridges, as well as the promotion of arts and culture. His leadership and dedication to helping those in need made him an influential figure in the New Deal era.
49.
The fair practices codes of the NRA did all of the following EXCEPT:
Correct Answer
D. Break up large corporations
Explanation
The fair practices codes of the NRA aimed to establish fair labor standards and protect workers' rights. They prohibited child labor, set minimum wages of $13 per week, and established a forty-hour work week. However, breaking up large corporations was not a part of the NRA's fair practices codes. This answer choice is the exception among the given options as it does not align with the objectives of the NRA's fair practices codes.
50.
The dust bowl can be associated with:
Correct Answer
D. The blowing away of millions of acres of topsoil
Explanation
The dust bowl was a period of severe dust storms that occurred in the 1930s, primarily in the Great Plains region of the United States. These storms resulted in the blowing away of millions of acres of topsoil, which devastated agricultural lands and caused significant economic and environmental damage. The dust bowl led to widespread crop failures, forcing many farmers to abandon their land and migrate to other areas in search of work and better living conditions. The large migrations from the impacted area to the Atlantic coast were a consequence of the dust bowl, but the primary association is the blowing away of topsoil.