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Don't Go Back and Backward with Republicans, Broadside, 1936

CONTENT WARNING

Materials in the Library of Virginia’s collections contain historical terms, phrases, and images that are offensive to modern readers. These include demeaning and dehumanizing references to race, ethnicity, and nationality; enslaved or free status; physical and mental ability; and gender and sexual orientation. 

Context

In 1932, Franklin D. Roosevelt won the presidential election, making him the first Democratic president in twelve years. As President, Roosevelt took quick action through his New Deal initiative to provide relief for struggling Americans through a variety of social programs. His administration also tried to establish measures which would help support economic recovery. These measures were not enough to counter the effects of the Depression. Roosevelt promoted his "Second New Deal" in 1935. This included the passage of the Social Security Act and the creation of the Works Progress Administration which employed three to eight million people in a variety of public service positions before the program ended in 1941. The Democratic Congress also passed the Wealth Tax, raising tax rates for the wealthiest Americans and largest corporations. This Second New Deal also saw the passage of the National Labor Relations Act (Wagner Act) that supported the rights of workers to join unions and bargain collectively.

While popular with many Americans, New Deal policies found enemies in the Republican Party, far-left political figures, and most notably, Father Coughlin, a radio personality, and Louisiana Senator Huey Long. They and their followers represented a growing group of people who were critical of the social programs and restrictions on business. The Republicans nominated moderate Kansas Governor Alfred Landon, who did not object to most of the social programs of the New Deal,but felt businesses and industry interests should be considered by the federal government. During the election campaign, Landon claimed FDR was corrupt and had overstepped his authority as president.

Broadsides were made and displayed in many states, including Virginia, to spread FDR's campaign message to potential voters. This particular broadside reminded voters of the past failures of the Republican party. In the end, the Democrats were not only able to campaign on the successes and popularity of New Deal policies, but also on reminding the public of the mistakes made by previous Republican administrations. In a landslide loss, Alfred M. Landon received only 8 electoral votes, carrying only Maine and Vermont.

Definition: Broadsides were posters, announcing events or proclamations, or simply advertisements. 

Citation: Don't go back and backward with Republicans, Broadside, Manuscripts & Special Collections, Library of Virginia.

Standards

Social Studies: VS.1, VS.9, US.II.1, USII.6, VUS.1, VUS.10
Art: 4.3, 5.3

Suggested Questions

Preview Activity

Look at It: Look at the broadside image, list three images or words that stand out. Why do you think the broadside was designed this way?

Post Activities

Analyze: Explain the "wolf in sheep's clothing" imagery. Why do you think this may have resonated with Americans during the 1930s?

Social Media Spin: Create a hashtag to match this broadside and a tweet for each of the policies that the Democrats focus on in their theme of "going back."

Political Plans: You are a member of the Landon campaign, what type of response would you give to address the issues identified in the broadside? Why?