Question

Was the Great Depression a threat to American democracy?

Answer 1

The Great Depression could have been a threat to American democracy if handled inappropriately. The collapse of the American financial system created great uncertainty and a loss of confidence in the economic system. In some countries in other parts of the world, economic hardships fueled the rise of autocratic leaders. This was the case in Germany and Italy, both of which were led by fascist leaders during World II. While alternative proposals to address the Great Depression did emerge, most notably Father Coughlin and Huey Long, the Roosevelt administration  effectively managed the crisis through New Deal programs. This allowed for the delivery of aid and strategic programs to all aspects of the economy.

Answer 2

Yes. The Great Depression was certainly a threat to American democracy as it opened people to consider the possibility of communism as an alternative system that would solve their problems which included high unemployment and poverty levels resulting from the economic downturn.