How far was Roosevelt responsible for his election victory Essay Example
How far was Roosevelt responsible for his election victory Essay Example

How far was Roosevelt responsible for his election victory Essay Example

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  • Pages: 7 (1895 words)
  • Published: November 4, 2017
  • Type: Essay
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In the 1920's, Franklin Roosevelt aspired to become President of the United States after experiencing the power and authority that accompanied being Governor of New York. This essay will evaluate Roosevelt's active pursuit of the presidency and analyze factors solely influenced by him as the nation desperately needed a new leader at that time. While he undeniably advanced his own cause through a well-executed campaign, it must be acknowledged that the election was also bestowed upon him due to the American people's yearning for swift change in leadership. They sought a new President capable of addressing challenges presented by ongoing depression, which Herbert Hoover struggled to effectively handle.

Franklin Roosevelt's previous experience in politics, specifically as the Governor of New York, provided a positive foundation for his campaign. His fair policies during his time as governor showcased his capabiliti

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es and served as an example of what he would be like as President. This garnered support for him in New York and helped establish his reputation as a competent leader.

Roosevelt's election campaign was well-organized and energetic, backed by wealthy citizens who offered hope for the USA. This demonstrated his determination to put forth all his energy and enthusiasm, proving to the American citizens his potential as a powerful President. His wholehearted commitment to assisting the USA resonated with the public, especially with the support of affluent backers. These backers not only provided financial assistance but also instilled belief among Americans that Roosevelt could revive the country's economy and provide a prosperous life once again.

Roosevelt's character greatly contributed to his achievement of becoming President and gaining support from the American people. This was evident in his speeches and

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interactions with individuals across different states, where he openly showcased his caring nature by helping others. As a result, this endeared Roosevelt to ordinary Americans, who believed that he would prioritize their well-being and improve their circumstances.

His character was once again displayed through his reputation for honesty and openness to seek guidance from economists, factory owners, unionists, and experts. This made him relatable to the public, as he demonstrated a genuine willingness to ask for assistance. In turn, this portrayed him more as a friendly companion than a distant President. Additionally, it showcased his transparency by indicating that he would not withhold any information and would involve the public in decision-making processes to enhance the country's strength and influence.

Additionally, he embarked on an extensive campaign by traveling throughout the nation to garner backing, actively interacting with individuals and obtaining firsthand encounters. He capitalized on every chance to give speeches, even in unconventional settings such as trains and streets. This showcased his resolute determination and steadfast dedication to triumph, revealing his willingness to exert extraordinary efforts in order to accomplish his objectives. His conduct conveyed a glimpse of the type of President he would become – someone who would tirelessly strive to rescue the American people from challenging situations and steer them towards improved circumstances.

American citizens were pleased with Roosevelt's policies, as they valued his dedication to meeting their needs. One notable policy involved establishing a government that actively provided substantial funds to combat the economic crisis and assist the American people. This was greatly appreciated by citizens who were worried and uncertain about the depression, including concerns about employment and supporting their families. Through his

assistance, Roosevelt offered hope to those facing difficulties.

Other policies were also going to be implemented by Roosevelt if he assumed the presidency. These encompassed New Deal Policies, with the intention of providing relief, recovery, and reform to the United States. This was favorable because it signified Roosevelt's commitment to rectifying the errors made by Hoover and restoring power and economic stability to the USA, which had been lost. Consequently, this would reinstate their pride and reaffirm their status as the most powerful country. As a result, these policies resonated with the American public, promising the restoration of their social lives and privileges if they voted for Roosevelt.

Famously, Franklin also made the decision to end prohibition, a major turning point in his campaign. This choice led to a decrease in crime rates and hindered the smuggling of illegal alcohol by gangsters. It allowed people to freely enjoy a drink and contributed to the rise of the economy through job creation and alcohol taxation. Consequently, Roosevelt's popularity surged. However, not everyone was pleased with Roosevelt; communists were dissatisfied with him and the wealthy felt betrayed due to the significantly higher taxes imposed to alleviate the depression.

Franklin proposed storing confidence and stability, which the Republican government seemed incapable of doing. This became a determining factor as the government's mistake made him popular with the public, rather than his own actions. This was an enlightening moment for the public as Roosevelt promised to be completely different from the Republicans, having a positive approach and doing his best for the country. Being a Democrat, Roosevelt prioritized the people and his own country, unlike the Republicans who only cared about

money and businesses. They believed that businesses would recover on their own during the depression, and thus did not contribute to its alleviation. The public realized they needed something different and placed their trust in Roosevelt, who was dedicated to serving the people during that challenging time.

Finally, Roosevelt contracted Polio during his August 1921 vacation. Despite this setback, it helped Roosevelt in his campaign as it demonstrated his perseverance to the American public. He fought tirelessly by attempting to stand at public events and aiding those with the illness. Consequently, there was an expectation that this determination and strength would translate into his political career. Out of sympathy and admiration for his resilience, voters hoped that he would excel and choose him as their President.

Roosevelt did not solely make himself President; there were other contributing factors to his victory. These factors provided significant assistance, demonstrating that he was not solely capable but rather benefited from external support that propelled him toward success.

Initially, Herbert Hoover's ineptitude greatly assisted him as it prompted the public to desire a new President, even if it meant overthrowing Hoover.

Due to Hoover's failure in addressing the Wall Street Crash and the Great Depression, the American people lost confidence in him and no longer desired him as President. Consequently, they were willing to elect anyone else, making Roosevelt's timing opportune. Unlike Hoover, who focused on businesses and believed that the depression would resolve on its own, Roosevelt was poised to provide the much-needed assistance during this economic downturn.

Hoover's response to the prolonged depression was deemed ineffective and untimely, leading to the popular adage 'too little, too late.' Despite eventually taking action, it

took him a substantial amount of time to recognize and respond. Consequently, people lost faith in his government for its failure to fulfill its commitments. This perception of Hoover as untrustworthy fostered a longing for a new leader who would prioritize the well-being of the populace over personal agendas. It is possible that Roosevelt secured his election not solely based on his own qualifications but rather due to public disdain for Hoover and their belief that anyone else would be better suited for the position.

Hoover exhibited significant disregard and indifference towards the American populace. He embraced the notion of 'Rugged Individualism', making it his priority to assist large corporations and the overall economy, while neglecting the needs of ordinary citizens. In contrast, Franklin Roosevelt advocated for government aid, considering it the government's duty to support American citizens. Consequently, Hoover faced immense public disapproval and lost numerous votes. The public desired his swift removal from office, even if it meant any replacement, as Hoover displayed a lack of concern and dedication towards both the public and his presidential role.

Despite his impoverished background, Hooper was perceived as distant and unsociable, showing disdainful behavior towards ordinary individuals and avoiding any intimate interaction with them. As an expression of intense hostility, the American public designated their squalid shantytowns as 'Hooverville's' and referred to newspaper blankets as 'Hoover Blankets.' This illustrated their profound animosity towards him, holding him responsible for their dire circumstances and believing that he possessed exclusive capability to rectify it. Nonetheless, he made no effort to address these concerns.

Hoover's power faced further challenges with the emergence of the 'Bonus Army.' As economic distress escalated, American soldiers and

their families marched to Washington in a demand for the money promised by the Government as recognition for their service. Instead of addressing these concerns, Hoover directed the military to intervene, turning against his own people. In an effort to evade accountability, he falsely branded the demonstrators as 'Communists.' This deceit was swiftly exposed by the public, resulting in intensified animosity towards Hoover and a loss of faith in his leadership. The populace believed that he needed to be ousted from office regardless of consequences.

The USA's economy was on the verge of collapse, leading to increased public demand for Hoover's overthrow. One of his mistakes was implementing a new policy that mandated higher tariffs for countries importing goods into America. Consequently, other nations retaliated by raising their tariffs as well, making it difficult for the USA to export goods due to increased costs. This had a major impact on farmers who struggled to sell their crops and sustain their businesses.

The public's frustration with Hoover grew as a result of his series of errors, leading to a decline. They strongly opposed his re-election due to the negative impact he had on the economy. As a result, they were open to electing any candidate other than Hoover as President. This provided an easy opportunity for Roosevelt, as the public turned directly to the opposition and supported them with their votes.

Lastly, Franklin Roosevelt received significant assistance from his speechwriter Louis Howe. Professionals arranged Roosevelt's speeches and political statements. Additionally, Howe, who was Roosevelt's friend, not only boosted his morale but also preserved his political reputation. It was Howe who composed Roosevelt's speeches, which captured the nation's attention and

made them feel connected to Roosevelt as a trusted friend. Consequently, Howe played a crucial role in Roosevelt's rise to power by presenting him as a compassionate and relatable figure. This strategy aimed to garner widespread admiration, evoke a sense of security, and encourage individuals to vote for him.

Overall, the American public perceived Roosevelt as instrumental in his own path to the presidency. He possessed a clear vision and diligently worked towards achieving it. His approach involved devising an impactful campaign that connected with regular citizens, allowing him to appear relatable and earn their trust, ultimately securing their votes. However, several other factors played a role in Roosevelt's rise to power. Notably, Hoover's mishandling of the depression emphasized Roosevelt's determination and competence. The public had become disenchanted with Hoover's ineffective response to the crisis and sought change in leadership. Consequently, they opted for any alternative besides Hoover as their next President.

Despite his disabilities, Franklin Roosevelt demonstrated immense determination and dedication in his quest to become President. This was evident in his overwhelming victory in the election, receiving a remarkable twenty-two million, eight hundred thousand votes compared to Hoover's dismal fifteen million, eight hundred thousand votes.

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