Discuss the nature and efficacy [effectiveness] of the New Deal.

Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of the nature and efficacy of the New Deal, but allow for some imbalance between the two. While their discussion may separate the First and Second New Deal, this division is not required. Discussion of “nature” may emphasize the emergency conditions prompting the First New Deal and its attempt to preserve the system of capitalism (as illustrated by the emergency banking measures). Candidates might argue that the Second New Deal was more radical in that capitalism was substantially changed (as evidenced by the Social Security Act). As for efficacy, some could argue that the First New Deal failed with over 11 million Americans still unemployed in 1935 and that the second New Deal addressed this through job creation. Others could argue that it was only with the Second World War that the American economy recovered, so perhaps both New Deals had limited efficacy.