Advanced Placement US History (AP US History) Practice Exam 2025 - Free AP US History Practice Questions and Study Guide

The significance of the New Deal lies in its comprehensive approach to address the economic challenges posed by the Great Depression, which began with the stock market crash in 1929 and led to widespread unemployment and poverty. Implemented by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the 1930s, the New Deal comprised a wide array of programs and reforms aimed at providing immediate relief to those suffering, recovering the economy, and reforming the financial system to prevent future depressions.

Key initiatives included the establishment of the Social Security system, which provided financial assistance to the elderly and unemployed; the creation of job programs like the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) that engaged millions in public works; and regulatory reforms such as the Securities Exchange Act that sought to stabilize the banking system and restore public confidence. By addressing both the immediate needs of individuals and the structural problems in the economy, the New Deal fundamentally transformed the role of the federal government in American society, expanding its influence and responsibilities.

The New Deal's lasting impact can be observed in the increased access to social safety nets and the establishment of a more robust regulatory framework, setting a precedent for future governmental involvement in economic and social welfare.