Hoover Proposes Public Works Program

December 2nd, 1930

December 2nd, 1930

Hoover Proposes Public Works Program
How Long Ago?

94 years, 3 months, 13 days ago

Location

Washington, D.C., United States

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Herbert Hoover
Links & References
Tags

Hoover Proposes Public Works Program

U.S. President Herbert Hoover proposed a $150 million public works program aimed at generating jobs and stimulating the economy during a critical phase of the Great Depression. Hoover advocated for significant government investment in infrastructure projects as a way to combat high unemployment rates and provide relief to millions of struggling Americans. His vision was to improve the nation's infrastructure while simultaneously offering immediate economic relief. The proposal was introduced in his State of the Union message to Congress, reflecting his commitment to addressing the economic crisis.

Hoover proposed $150 million for public works.

Aimed to generate jobs during the Great Depression.

Reflected a shift towards government economic intervention.

Sought to restore public confidence and provide relief.

What Happened?

In his State of the Union address, U.S. President Herbert Hoover unveiled a $150 million public works program as a proactive measure to stimulate the economy amid the ongoing Great Depression. At this time, the nation was facing unprecedented economic turmoil characterized by mass unemployment and widespread financial hardship. Hoover's administration aimed to boost public confidence and provide necessary relief through strategic investments in infrastructure. The proposal included projects like road construction, irrigation improvements, and other public infrastructure developments that would create jobs and enhance the nation's capabilities.

The public works program was significant not only for its immediate goals but also as a response to the broader ideological debate about government intervention in the economy. Hoover, who believed in limited government interference, faced increasing pressure to act decisively. His initiative signified a shift towards recognizing the role the federal government could play in alleviating economic distress. Moreover, it represented Hoover's belief in voluntary cooperation between the government and private sector to achieve public welfare, even as the urgency of the situation demanded more direct action.

While the $150 million allocation was substantial, many critics argued it was insufficient to effectively tackle the scale of the crisis. Nonetheless, Hoover's proposal laid groundwork for future federal initiatives and set a precedent for later administrations that would take more aggressive approaches to economic recovery. The program reflects a pivotal moment in American political history, where the balance between federal action and economic conservatism was tested in real time.

Why Does it Matter?

This proposal by President Hoover is interesting because it marks a critical point at which the federal government began to grapple with the responsibilities inherent in a major economic crisis. It laid foundational ideas for subsequent economic policies and shaped future government's roles in economic intervention. The initiative indicated a growing recognition that public investment could be a means to stimulate the economy and maintain social stability.

Discover More Historic Events from December 2nd

Politics & Government

UN Commission Reclassifies Cannabis Under Treaty

December 2nd, 2020 4 years ago

The UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs voted to remove cannabis from the most dangerous drugs category in an effort to better align international drug policies with evolving societal views and medical research. This decision was influenced by an increasing recognition of cannabis's medical benefits and a shift in public opinion regarding its use. The move allows for greater research into its therapeutic applications and reflects changing attitudes towards cannabis regulation in various countries.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Tragedy Strikes Artist Collective in Oakland

December 2nd, 2016 8 years ago

A fire consumed a converted warehouse in Oakland, California, causing the deaths of thirty-six individuals attending a party. The venue, known as Ghost Ship, was an artist collective that was housing numerous workspaces and living quarters. Emergency responders faced difficulties due to the complex layout and lack of proper exits. The event highlighted concerns over safety codes and regulations for such informal venues within urban areas, raising awareness of potential hazards in creative communities.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Mass Shooting at Inland Regional Center

December 2nd, 2015 9 years ago

Syed Rizwan Farook and Tashfeen Malik opened fire at a holiday party at the Inland Regional Center in San Bernardino, California, killing 14 people and injuring 22 others. The attackers, inspired by extremist ideology, used semi-automatic weapons during the assault. Law enforcement officials engaged in a vehicle pursuit of Farook and Malik, who were killed in a subsequent shootout. This mass shooting marked one of the deadliest attacks in U.S. history.

Continue Reading
Economics & Industry

Enron's Historic Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Filing

December 2nd, 2001 23 years ago

Enron Corporation, once a giant in the energy sector, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in a Houston court, facing debts exceeding $30 billion. This followed revelations of widespread accounting fraud and mismanagement that inflated profits and misled investors. By declaring bankruptcy, Enron aimed to reorganize its business operations, but the fallout led to significant losses for shareholders and employees, and prompted a national discussion on corporate governance and accounting practices.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Devolution of Power to Northern Ireland Executive

December 2nd, 1999 25 years ago

The United Kingdom devolved political power in Northern Ireland to the newly established Northern Ireland Executive. This marked a significant step in the implementation of the Good Friday Agreement, aiming to promote peace and local governance in the region. The event was pivotal in addressing the historical and political complexities of Northern Ireland, allowing for self-governance and giving local politicians the authority to make decisions affecting their communities.

Continue Reading
Space Exploration

Endeavour's Mission to Hubble Space Telescope

December 2nd, 1993 31 years ago

NASA launched the Space Shuttle Endeavour to conduct repairs on the Hubble Space Telescope. The mission aimed to improve the telescope's capabilities, which had been hindered by flawed optics. A seven-member crew, including mission commander Richard Covey and payload commander Jeffrey Hoffman, embarked on this significant journey, showcasing the importance of collaborative efforts in space exploration.

Continue Reading