For many the 1930s were a time of sadness. The Great Depression left a heavy
mark on the country. Many people remained unemployeed for years and thousands became homeless every year. Migrant workers, who led nomadic lifestyles traveling from place to place as the seasons changed were common across the US particularly in the Midwest where most of the farming occurred. Many called this decade the "Lost Generation" inspired by Earnest Hemmingway's novel The Sun Also Rises. It would take a great president and social reformer to change the country. Franklin Delano Roosevelt began his sixteen year presidency in 1933, following Herbert Hoover.
Between 1933 and 1939 alone he and his wife Eleanor, started numerous projects to improve the state of the country, particularly those in need. In 1933 he created the National Recovery Administration to increase employment and business. In 1934 he launched the Federal Housing program assisting the homeless in getting homes. In 1935 the Social Security Act was passed in addition to the National Labor Relations Act. The Work Projects administration was formed
in 1935 giving eight million jobs to people. In 1938 the Fair Labor Standards were passed. 1939 tested Roosevelt's strength as a president during war time. Despite Germany's seizing of Poland the United States took a neutral stance. | 
