Herbert Hoover
The 31st president of the United States (1929-1933)
Real World Example
Herbert Hoover was the 31st president of the United States, serving from 1929 to 1933 during the start of the Great Depression. Initially praised for his humanitarian efforts during World War I, he struggled to combat the economic downturn once he became president. Hoover believed in limited government intervention, favoring volunteerism and local efforts to address the crisis, which many felt was inadequate as unemployment soared. Today, his presidency serves as a lesson on the importance of effective government response to economic crises, influencing current policies and debates on government intervention. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. government's swift economic stimulus packages contrasted with Hoover's approach, showing a shift towards more direct support for citizens.