What did Roosevelt want his Square Deal program to achieve?
The Square Deal, a progressive platform introduced by President Theodore Roosevelt in the early 20th century, aimed to achieve several key goals that would improve the lives of American citizens and restore the balance of power between big business and the government. Roosevelt’s vision for the Square Deal was centered around three main principles: conservation, trust-busting, and social justice.
First and foremost, Roosevelt wanted his Square Deal program to achieve conservation. He believed that natural resources should be preserved for future generations, rather than being exploited and depleted. To this end, Roosevelt implemented policies that protected forests, wildlife, and public lands. He established the United States Forest Service and created national parks, such as Yellowstone and Yosemite, to ensure that these precious resources would be maintained for all Americans to enjoy.
Secondly, Roosevelt sought to achieve trust-busting through his Square Deal program. At the time, many large corporations had become too powerful, often engaging in anti-competitive practices that harmed consumers and workers. Roosevelt aimed to break up these monopolies and restore fair competition in the marketplace. His administration filed numerous antitrust suits against large corporations, such as Standard Oil and United States Steel, and successfully dismantled several trusts, thus promoting a more level playing field for businesses and consumers alike.
Lastly, Roosevelt wanted his Square Deal program to achieve social justice. He recognized that many Americans were struggling with poverty, low wages, and poor working conditions. To address these issues, Roosevelt pushed for reforms that would improve the lives of workers and the poor. He supported the establishment of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to regulate unfair business practices and protect consumers. Additionally, Roosevelt advocated for the passage of the Pure Food and Drug Act, which aimed to ensure the safety and quality of food and drugs in the United States.
In summary, what Roosevelt wanted his Square Deal program to achieve was a more balanced and just society. By focusing on conservation, trust-busting, and social justice, Roosevelt sought to create a fairer America where natural resources were preserved, big businesses were reined in, and the well-being of all citizens was a priority. The Square Deal remains a significant part of Roosevelt’s legacy, as it laid the groundwork for future progressive movements and helped shape the modern American political landscape.
