The 1920s saw a return to normalcy after the upheaval of World War I. The government was dominated by the Republican Party, which favored limited government intervention in the economy and social issues. The 1930s saw the rise of the New Deal, a series of programs aimed at combating the Great Depression. Franklin D. Roosevelt, a Democrat, was elected president in 1932 and served until his death in 1945. The New Deal era saw a significant expansion of the federal government's role in the economy and society.
The following are some of the key changes in government that occurred between the 1920s and 1950s:
- The expansion of the federal government: The federal government grew significantly in size and power during this period. This was due in part to the New Deal, which created a number of new government agencies and programs. The federal government also played a major role in World War II, which further expanded its power.
- The rise of the presidency: The president became the most powerful figure in the federal government during this period. This was due in part to the New Deal, which gave the president broad authority to create new programs and policies. The president also played a major role in World War II, which further enhanced his power.
- The decline of Congress: Congress's power declined relative to the president's power during this period. This was due in part to the rise of the presidency and the growth of the federal bureaucracy. Congress also lost power due to the increasing polarization of American politics.
- The growth of the bureaucracy: The federal bureaucracy grew significantly in size and power during this period. This was due in part to the New Deal, which created a number of new government agencies and programs. The bureaucracy also played a major role in World War II, which further expanded its power.
- The increasing polarization of American politics: American politics became increasingly polarized during this period. This was due in part to the rise of the New Deal, which created a deep division between liberals and conservatives. The increasing polarization of American politics made it more difficult for the government to reach consensus on important issues.
These are just some of the key changes in government that occurred between the 1920s and 1950s. These changes had a profound impact on the United States and continue to shape American politics today.