In 1932, one in four Americans was unemployed, marking the highest unemployment rate in the country's history. The Democratic presidential candidate Franklin D. Roosevelt promised a New Deal— a comprehensive set of legislation to support struggling citizens and put the country back to work. Meg Jacobs digs into the policies of this bold campaign and how it didn't fully live up to its promises. [Directed by Anton Bogaty, narrated by Christina Greer, music by Stephen LaRosa].

Meg Jacobs: What few people know about the program that "saved" America

What few people know about the program that "saved" America

The New Deal's promise of extensive federal intervention marked a paradigm shift in tackling the Great Depression's woes.

While stabilizing banks and boosting employment, the New Deal's impact varied, notably less positive for Black Americans in the South.

Despite strides in reducing unemployment and empowering unions, the New Deal's legacy is mixed, especially in racial equity.