Question

Do you think President Herbert Hoover’s response to the economic downturn that began in 1929 was adequate?

Answer 1

Most historians would say that Hoover's response to the economic downturn was inadequate. Even though he implemented a few federal works projects (like the Hoover Dam) that aimed to employ American citizens, these programs were temporary. Hoover did not provide for many long term solutions to the issues that caused the Great Depression. His belief in laissez faire, meaning little/no government interference with the economy, negatively effected his ability to help the American people during this time. Ultimately, Hoover will be remembered as a president who did little to help America during the Great Depression.