Final answer:
The views on whether Franklin Roosevelt was a hero or a tyrant are mixed, involving his push for governmental intervention during the Great Depression and his expansion of executive power, which were seen variously as both necessary and an overreach of constitutional authority.
Step-by-step explanation:
Whether Franklin Roosevelt should be seen as a hero admired for his leadership during the Great Depression or as a tyrant who overstepped his constitutional authority is a debated issue. Critics on the political right accused Roosevelt of moving the country towards socialism and fascism, whereas those on the political left argued he didn't do enough to help struggling Americans. Despite these criticisms, Roosevelt used his persuasive oratory to galvanize support for his policies, while addressing the nation with clarity and confidence, which played a significant role in his overall success. It's also important to note that Roosevelt's presidency led to the expansion of the executive branch's power, which had a profound and lasting impact on the role.
Roosevelt's ambitious agenda included the New Deal programs meant to revitalize the economy and provide relief to the American people. While some saw this as necessary intervention, others felt that programs like the National Recovery Administration (NRA) and policies such as the court-packing plan jeopardized the balance of power within the federal government. Ultimately, the Supreme Court's acquiescence and subsequent retirements of several justices allowed Roosevelt to appoint those more favorable to his views, further consolidating his influence and shaping the trajectory of federal policies.
In considering Roosevelt's legacy, it's also useful to look at his distant cousin Theodore Roosevelt, who as president also expanded the power of the executive with his 'Big Stick' policy and trust-busting measures. Both Roosevelts challenged existing political norms but were motivated by a vision of national progress and public service. The degree to which each Roosevelt pushed the boundaries of presidential power continues to be a topic of historical inquiry and debate.