How we cite our quotes: (Sentence)
Quote #1
It can be accomplished in part by direct recruiting by the Government itself, treating the task as we would treat the emergency of a war, but at the same time, through this employment, accomplishing greatly needed projects to stimulate and reorganize the use of our natural resources. (36)
By "treating the task as we would treat the emergency of a war," Roosevelt means throwing everything but the kitchen sink at the problem. Like an actual war, this is a problem that needs money, manpower, and improved transportation to ensure supplies are adequate. Convincing the citizenry that the sacrifices and efforts necessary to wage this economic war are worth the costs is a crucial task. But after years of inaction, an all-out mobilization sounds like a fine plan.
Quote #2
There are the lines of attack. (46)
Again, like a general briefing his troops, FDR paints his policies as plans of attack. The decisive and straightforward way he addresses the problems facing America gives the people a duty to perform, and morale improved almost immediately.
Quote #3
If I read the temper of our people correctly, we now realize as we have never realized before our interdependence on each other; that we can not merely take but we must give as well; that if we are to go forward, we must move as a trained and loyal army willing to sacrifice for the good of a common discipline, because without such discipline no progress is made, no leadership becomes effective. (58)
Sacrifice is never easy. But it's easier to take when you know everyone is doing so for some bigger purpose. FDR used his idealism and the people's desperation to channel their power into countrywide progress. His New Deal legislation created millions of jobs by investing in infrastructure, improving roads and bridges and even dams. This had profound effects on the country; not only was America modernized, but in many ways these programs redefined the government's purpose to its people.