Question

"State of the Union" Address

Franklin Delano Roosevelt, January 3, 1934

Now that we are definitely in the process of recovery, lines have been rightly drawn between those to whom this recovery means a return to old methods -- and the number of these people is small -- and those for whom recovery means a reform of many of our ways of thinking, and therefore, of may of our social and economic arrangements….

Without regard to party, the overwhelming majority of our people seek a greater opportunity for humanity to prosper and find happiness. They recognize that human welfare has not increased, and does not increase, through mere materialism and luxury, but that it does progress through integrity, unselfishness, responsibility, and justice.
Which best describes Roosevelt's point of view in this speech?

A) Roosevelt incites the majority to rise up and force the minority to accept change.
B) Roosevelt believes that a small number of people will lead America to economic change.
C) Roosevelt acknowledges that major economic and social changes are needed in American society.
D) Roosevelt praises those who would help America get back on track by returning to old practices.

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Answer 1

The correct response is Option A) Roosevelt incites the majority to rise up and force the minority to accept change.

Step-by-step explanation:

In his State of the Union address in 1934, FDR wanted to make the point that the recovery would take the effort of the majority and that they would have to accept changes to the status quo. FDR felt the majority realized this and that those who wanted to return to the old system were in the minority. It was no longer as simple as increasing wealth and the material well being of a few. I would take the majority to progress and to change the faulty reasoning and approaches that led to the Great Depression and the economic collapse.