Essay Problem
• Offer an analysis of the causes of the Great Depression and assess the effectiveness of Franklin Roosevelt's New Deal programs in dealing with the economic crisis. Give examples of New Deal programs and how they were intended to provide either relief or recovery from the Great Depression. Why did some critics on the political Left, such as Senator Huey Long of Louisiana, criticize Roosevelt? Why did those on the political Right criticize him? What is your overall assessment of the New Deal and of Roosevelt's response? How did the tremendous popularity of both President and Mrs. Roosevelt aid President Roosevelt's political objectives?
• Offer a history of the African-American Civil Rights Movement(s) from 1954 through 1972. As you develop your essay, address such issues as school desegregation, the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the Civil Rights Bills of 1957 and 1960, disenchantment with reform within the African-American community, and the busing controversy. Pay particular attention to the contributions of both Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X to the Civil Rights Movement(s). What is the "ethical basis" (i.e. "just law" versus "unjust law") of King's "Letter from Birmingham Jail" and how does Malcolm X support his arguments in "The Black Revolution Speeches"? Also, compare the writing/speaking styles of the two men. How do each man's personal and educational backgrounds and linguistic styles differ?
The response must include a reference list. Using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, double-space, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.