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Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidency is often regarded as a case study in crisis management and long-term governance, offering valuable lessons for today’s complex world. Roosevelt inherited a nation in deep turmoil during the Great Depression and transformed it through bold leadership, innovative policies, and a reimagining of the government’s role in society. Here’s an analysis of how he navigated these challenges and the relevance to contemporary complexities:
3 min readJan 14, 2025
The Inherited Mess: The Great Depression
When Roosevelt took office in 1933:
1. Economic Collapse:
• The U.S. faced an unemployment rate of around 25%.
• Banks were failing, wiping out savings and eroding trust in financial institutions.
• Industrial production had plummeted by nearly 50% since 1929.
2. Social Distress:
• Widespread poverty, homelessness, and hunger.
• The Dust Bowl in the Midwest exacerbated rural suffering.
3. Political Instability:
• Rising calls for radical solutions from both the political left and right.