What was a significant consequence of the New Deal?

The expansion of social welfare programs was a significant consequence of the New Deal, which was a series of programs and policies initiated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in response to the Great Depression. The New Deal sought to provide relief for the unemployed and poor, recovery of the economy, and reform of the financial system. Key components included the establishment of Social Security, unemployment insurance, and various public works programs that aimed to create jobs and stimulate economic activity.

These social welfare programs fundamentally changed the relationship between the federal government and the American public, as they marked the first time the government took an active role in ensuring the well-being of its citizens through a safety net. This expansion reflects a shift towards a more interventionist federal government in economic matters, aiming to alleviate the hardships caused by the Great Depression and to prevent future economic crises. The focus on social welfare laid the groundwork for ongoing debates about the role of government in providing social services and contributing to the economic security of its citizens.