Modern Presidency

It is no accident that most scholars of the “modern presidency” begin by looking at the administration of Franklin D. Roosevelt. Indeed, it is something of a cliché to assert that his tenure marked a “turning point” in the development of the presidency. So we all probably can agree that FDR was “important”—but what does this actually mean? Based on what we have studied so far, what do you regard as the real significance to the presidency itself of Roosevelt’s time in office? Do you believe it is more accurate to describe the changes in the presidency that occurred during and immediately after his administration as revolutionary or evolutionary? In other words, to what extent did his policies, understanding and use of power, as well as his leadership style and alterations in the structure of the presidency, signify a sharp break with the past; to what extent did FDR build incrementally upon the behavior and accomplishments of at least some of what came before him?
Be substantive in your analysis, referring when appropriate to specific events, readings, or theoretical insights. There is no “one right answer” to the question(s) being asked, and you should not do any outside research in order to write a good paper. Your grade will be based upon the precision and persuasiveness of the case you make, and on the effectiveness of your use of evidence to support it.
Important: There is no “one right answer” to any of the questions posed in this assignment. However, you must be specific and substantive in what you say, grounding your essay in evidence from the assigned readings. Your work will be assessed mainly on the basis of how effective and persuasive you are in articulating and fleshing out the case you set forth in your paper. So–begin with a clear definition of the “modern presidency” and with a clear statement of your thesis (or argument). Then, choose your examples and your support carefully, with emphasis on the significance of what you decide to discuss. Remember–a “modern” president is not necessarily a “successful” or “great” one. Similarly, there were powerful (and successful) earlier presidents–who were not “modern”! Don’t make the mistake of looking only at the positive; try to consider the whole picture.

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