Final answer:
FDR exercised executive powers within the scope of the Constitution, as interpreted by the norms and judicial rulings of his era, especially during national emergencies like the Great Depression and World War II. The Supreme Court had a vital role in setting boundaries for presidential authority through its decisions. Although some actions were contested, FDR's use of power was generally upheld within the constitutional context.
Step-by-step explanation:
Throughout his presidency, Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) made use of executive powers to address the crisis of the Great Depression and later the demands of World War II. While the Constitution and subsequent statutes have granted the president various domestic and foreign policy powers, FDR's actions such as issuing executive orders for national bank holidays, bank loans, public works, and the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII, expanded the scope of presidential authority. These actions were in line with FDR's belief in a proactive executive branch responding to the people's needs unless explicitly restricted by the Constitution or laws.
The Supreme Court played a crucial role in delineating the limits of these powers, sometimes expanding and other times limiting the presidential reach. The Court's decisions, in the context of congressional action or inaction, have defined the range of inherent powers a president may claim. For instance, the Supreme Court allowed for presidential acts on foreign policy without congressional approval but struck down President Truman's seizure of steel mills, citing a lack of constitutional or congressional authority for such action.
Despite criticisms, FDR's actions were largely within the constitutional framework, as interpreted by contemporary norms and judicial rulings, which underscored the president's role in times of national emergency. However, the legislative and judicial branches did push back at times, suggesting a complex interplay between the branches in defining the extent of presidential powers.