Final answer:
Herbert Hoover held to the principle of American individualism, believing people should progress with minimal government support. His late response to the Great Depression, which included limited government intervention, had little effect on the deteriorating economy and led to widespread criticism.
Step-by-step explanation:
Herbert Hoover made certain assumptions about the American people and the economy during the Great Depression. He believed strongly in American individualism, which posited that people should advance through their own efforts with minimal government aid. This conviction affected his policymaking, as Hoover was initially reluctant to provide substantial federal intervention or direct relief to those affected by the economic crisis.
Despite the economic turmoil that escalated after the stock market crash of 1929, Hoover remained optimistic publicly, claiming that the worst was over and that the American economy would recover. This stance reflected his adherence to the tradition of limited government interference that had been a feature of the prosperous years preceding the Depression.
However, as conditions worsened, Hoover ultimately did support some government intervention, such as expanding public works and creating the Reconstruction Finance Corporation (RFC). Nevertheless, these measures were too little, too late, and did not include direct aid to individuals, which many believed was necessary. His approach was seen as out of touch with the harsh realities of widespread unemployment and bank failures. Consequently, criticism of his administration mounted, and he was defeated in the 1932 election.