What was the primary aim of the New Deal in relation to capitalism in the United States?

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Study for the Texas AandM University HIST106 History of the United States Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The primary aim of the New Deal was to reform capitalism and promote economic security in the United States. In response to the Great Depression, which revealed significant weaknesses in the capitalist system, President Franklin D. Roosevelt and his administration implemented a series of programs and policies designed to stabilize the economy, provide relief for the unemployed, and restore public confidence in the financial system.

By focusing on reforming capitalism rather than replacing it, the New Deal sought to balance the needs of labor, business, and the public. This included initiatives such as the establishment of Social Security, regulations on banking, and the creation of job programs which aimed to provide immediate assistance while also instituting long-term structural changes. The intention was to address the failures that had led to the economic crisis while preserving the fundamental framework of a capitalist economy. Ultimately, the New Deal aimed to ensure that capitalism could function more effectively and sustainably, thereby promoting greater economic security for the American people.