FDR's Folly: How Roosevelt and His New Deal Prolonged the Great Depression : Book Review

"FDR's Folly: How Roosevelt and His New Deal Prolonged the Great Depression" by Jim Powell is an intriguing and extensively researched book that challenges the commonly held views on Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal policies. Powell argues that instead of lifting the United States out of the Great Depression, these policies actually worsened and prolonged the economic crisis.

One of the notable aspects of this book is how Powell provides a wealth of historical context and analysis to support his claims. He delves into the economic theories and policies of the time and compares them to FDR's approach. Through evidence and examples, he suggests that the New Deal had unintended negative consequences, such as suppressing business investment and expanding government power.

What sets "FDR's Folly" apart is the author's ability to explain complex economic concepts in a clear and accessible manner. Powell breaks down the intricacies of the New Deal programs and their impact on the economy, making it easier for readers to understand. By highlighting instances of government waste, mismanagement, and unintended consequences, he presents a compelling case for why FDR's policies were ultimately harmful.

Another strength of this book is the extensive research that went into its creation. Powell draws on a wide range of primary and secondary sources, including government reports, personal accounts, and economic data. This thorough approach enhances the book's credibility and makes it an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to understand the economic history of the Great Depression.

In summary, "FDR's Folly" is a thought-provoking and well-researched book that challenges the dominant narrative regarding Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal policies. Jim Powell's thorough research and clear explanations present a compelling argument that these policies actually prolonged the Great Depression. This book is essential reading for those interested in economic history and the effects of government intervention on the economy.

What are readers saying?

"FDR's Folly" by Jim Powell is a thought-provoking book that delves into the economic policies implemented by Franklin D. Roosevelt during his presidency. The reception of the book has been mixed, with reviewers offering different perspectives.

Some readers appreciated Powell's thoroughly researched and informative analysis, which revealed the unintended consequences of Roosevelt's New Deal. They commended the author for challenging commonly held beliefs about government intervention in the economy and praised his ability to present complex economic concepts in a clear and accessible manner.

However, there were others who criticized Powell's lack of objectivity and felt that his arguments were biased. These readers believed that the book failed to fully consider the context and challenges faced by the United States during the Great Depression. They expressed disappointment in the book's focus on negative outcomes without providing a balanced analysis of the New Deal's overall impact.

Furthermore, a few readers found the book to be excessively repetitive and overly detailed, which made it a dense and challenging read. These readers opined that a more concise presentation of information could have made the book more engaging and accessible to a wider audience.

Nevertheless, despite the varying opinions, the majority of readers agreed that "FDR's Folly" offers a fresh perspective on Roosevelt's policies and enhances understanding of their long-term effects. Regardless of whether readers agreed or disagreed with Powell's analysis, they found value in the book as a resource for exploring economic history and the role of government in shaping the economy. Overall, "FDR's Folly" contributes to the ongoing discourse on Roosevelt's economic policies and stimulates critical thinking on the subject.

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