Each student will independently select and analyze a book about Roosevelt. The book must be purchased, as you are expected to write in the book (marginalia), highlight the book, and treat it as a research instrument. You will develop a min-thesis.
Some possible topics include (not all encompassing)
Secondary sources should include scholarly interpretations of the topic
Pre-Roosevelt Philosophy of Government | Roosevelt Philosophy of Government | |
The federal budget must be balanced, and the dollar tied to the Gold standard | Deficit spending can be justified. The dollar is disconnected from the gold standard | |
Rugged Individualism. People who are poor are lazy. They have to prove they are poor and in need before any relief should be considered. | The people's welfare is a direct federal obligation. Direct relief is necessary, but jobs are even more critical than a hand-out. | |
It is not the government's place to interfere with the Economy or with the running of businesses. Wages, hours and working conditions are best left unregulated. | The people's welfare is a direct federal obligation. Wages, hours and working conditions are must be regulated. | |
It is the job of the church and the family, as well as the individual and community, to care for the sick, the old, and the disabled. | The people's welfare is a direct federal obligation. Unemployment and old-age insurance (social security) were implemented. | |
Banking is a private industry, which like other industries should be unregulated. No insurance or other safety net needed. | Banks must be made secure if people are to trust in them. Banks will be regulated and backed by the federal government. | |
Each community can decide whether or not to provide educational opportunities for its citizens. | Literacy levels affect employment potential. Every citizen should have access to educational opportunities, and reading materials, even adults. |