Final answer:
The New Deal did not help all African Americans equally during the Great Depression. Discriminatory practices and exclusions limited the benefits received by African Americans from New Deal programs. However, some programs like the WPA did provide employment opportunities for African Americans.
Step-by-step explanation:
The New Deal, a series of programs implemented by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to address the economic challenges of the Great Depression, did not help all African Americans equally. While the New Deal brought about positive changes and provided assistance to many Americans, African Americans faced discrimination and were often excluded from these programs or received limited benefits compared to their white counterparts.
For example, the Social Security Act of 1935, which established a system of old-age pensions, unemployment insurance, and aid to dependent children, initially excluded agricultural and domestic workers—jobs primarily held by African Americans. It was only later that these exclusions were removed. Additionally, African Americans faced discriminatory practices in receiving loans and housing benefits through the New Deal's Home Owners' Loan Corporation and Federal Housing Administration.
However, it is important to note that some New Deal programs did benefit African Americans. The Works Progress Administration (WPA) provided some employment opportunities for African Americans in construction and arts projects. Additionally, organizations created under the New Deal, like the National Urban League and the Civilian Conservation Corps, aimed to support African American communities.
Learn more about The impact of the New Deal on African Americans during the Great Depression