Fdr Foreign Policy

In the years prior to World War II, the United States were in tough times financially. With the Depression affecting most Americans, no one in America was looking to get into a war. Roosevelt felt the need to aid Americans by creating jobs while also preparing for a potential war. In an illustration by the Brown Brothers, Uncle Sam, representing the government, pours money that is being spent on arms, into a cannon. By pouring money into the economy, jobs were created and a lot of Americans got back on their feet. Another example of economics affecting Roosevelt’s foreign policy is foreign trade. As Wendell Wilkie said, “Also, our foreign trade would be profoundly affected. That trade is vital to our prosperity.” Just like Roosevelt, Wilkie realizes that without the British navy controlling the Atlantic, the American economy will take a hit. This is also the reason for acts like the Lend Lease Act, which provided aid to foreign nations such as Great Britain. These moves proved successful as the United States economy recovered. According to Gilbert C. Fite and Jim E. Reese in An Economic History of the United States, manufacturing output increased by 154% from 1939 to 1941. Business failures also decreased in that time, from 14,768 to 11,848. Overall, Roosevelt’s foreign policy in the years before war boosted a struggling American economy.Roosevelt made it clear in his Four Freedoms speech to Congress the importance of national security in his foreign policy. He said, “Our national policy is this: First, by an impressive expression of the public will and without regard to partisanship, we are committed to all-inclusive national defense.” He later goes to say, “ We are putting forth our energies, our resources, and our organizing powers to give you the strength to regain and maintain a free world. We shall send you in ever-increasing numbers, ships, planes, and guns.” Although he is focused on keeping America safe, he also wants to aid allies