Typed and handwritten notes for a speech given by Roosevelt, comprising one unsigned 8.5 x 11 sheet written in pencil by FDR, and a typed 8.5 x 11 page signed in pencil, “O.K.E., F.D.R.,” no date [but 1931]. The handwritten sheet reads, in full: “2. On the land, 25,000,000 are poor, nearly all of them—but very few are starving—most of their food they require no cash for—they have a roof over their heads. 3. What would happen if this country were to make a definite program to enable 14,000,000 now in cities to go to small farms where they could raise a large part of their food & perhaps find a job in the nearest community—with the full understanding that not one of them would ever get rich. 4. How many would apply?” The typewritten sheet reads, in full: “Prevention of further crises like the present one is a different problem, involving the economics and long-range planning. Actual relief work this winter is too big in most places for private and local facilities to meet. The State accepts the task cheerfully because it believes it will help restore that close relationship with its people which is necessary to preserve our democratic form of government.” Both pages are handsomely matted and framed with a photo to an overall size of 40.25 x 22.75. In good to very good condition, with overall toning to handwritten sheet, scattered soiling to typewritten sheet, and chips, small edge tears, and small pieces of mounting tape to reverse of both sheets. The text is clear and generally unaffected throughout.
Roosevelt’s language, particularly that on the typewritten sheet, echoes that which he used in describing the aims of the Temporary Emergency Relief Administration (TERA), one of his most important initiatives as Governor of Depression-era New York. This pioneering program of state-administered government assistance, established in October 1931, was the first of its kind in the country. Its success not only helped push FDR to the forefront of Democratic nominees for president the following year, but also provided an important model for the New Deal programs—including Social Security, the Works Progress Administration, and others—that he would soon enact as Commander-in-Chief. An important and historic document from the man who strove to rescue America from the most dire economic state it had ever known. Oversized. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
Buy a third-party letter of authenticity for
$75.00
*This item has been pre-certified by a trusted third-party authentication service, and by placing a bid on this item, you agree to accept the opinion of this authentication service. If you wish to have an opinion rendered by a different authenticator of your choosing, you must do so prior to your placing of any bid. RR Auction is not responsible for differing opinions submitted 30 days after the date of the sale.
We use cookies on this site to improve your experience. By using this site, you accept our use of cookies. To learn more, please see our Privacy Policy.
