Creation of the Federal Emergency Relief Administration
May 12th, 1933
May 12th, 1933
How Long Ago?
91 years, 10 months, 3 days ago
Location
Washington, D.C., United States
Category
Politics & Government
People
- Franklin D. Roosevelt
- Harry Hopkins
Links & References
Tags
Creation of the Federal Emergency Relief Administration
President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed legislation creating the Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) to address the widespread poverty caused by the Great Depression. FERA aimed to provide immediate relief for the unemployed and fund direct assistance programs. The agency distributed federal funds to state and local governments for unemployment relief efforts. Roosevelt's goal was to alleviate suffering while paving the way for longer-term recovery efforts.
FERA provided immediate relief during the Great Depression.
Funded state and local government unemployment efforts.
Over $500 million distributed in its first year.
Laid groundwork for future federal relief programs.
What Happened?
In response to the economic devastation of the Great Depression, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Federal Emergency Relief Act, creating the Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA). Established in May 1933, FERA focused on providing immediate support for the millions of Americans who faced unemployment due to economic turmoil. Under the leadership of Harry Hopkins, the agency was responsible for administering funds for direct relief to state and local governments, enabling them to respond effectively to the needs of their citizens. The establishment of FERA marked a shift in the federal government's approach to social welfare and economic recovery, emphasizing direct assistance as a means to combat widespread poverty. FERA provided crucial funding to support various relief efforts, particularly in the areas of job creation and public works programs. In its first year alone, FERA distributed over $500 million to state programs and served millions of families, ensuring basic needs such as food and shelter were met. Furthermore, FERA put in place the framework for future relief programs, as many of its initiatives laid the groundwork for subsequent New Deal legislation.
Why Does it Matter?
The creation of the Federal Emergency Relief Administration was a turning point in American social policy, marking the first large-scale federal intervention in relief efforts. FERA's establishment reflected a growing recognition of the government's responsibility to assist its citizens during times of crisis. This action set a precedent for future government programs aimed at aiding the unemployed and those living in poverty, ultimately leading to the formation of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which continues to play a critical role in disaster management and emergency preparedness today.
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