How did the definition of freedom change over the course of the New Deal? Explain and analyze how Roosevelt believed that economic security was a political condition of personal freedom.

The definition of freedom changed over the course of the New Deal as President Franklin D. Roosevelt expanded the concept to include economic security as a fundamental aspect of personal freedom. Initially, freedom was understood in a more traditional sense, focusing on individual liberties and rights. However, as the Great Depression brought widespread economic hardship and insecurity, Roosevelt recognized that true freedom could not be achieved without addressing the economic well-being of the American people.

Roosevelt believed that economic security was a political condition of personal freedom because he saw how economic instability and poverty limited people's ability to fully participate in society and exercise their rights. In his famous "Four Freedoms" speech, Roosevelt articulated his vision of freedom, which included not only freedom of speech and religion, but also freedom from want and freedom from fear. He argued that without economic security, individuals could not fully enjoy their other freedoms.

To address this, Roosevelt implemented a series of New Deal programs aimed at providing relief, recovery, and reform to the economy. These programs included the establishment of social security, unemployment insurance, and minimum wage laws, as well as job creation through public works projects. By providing a safety net and promoting economic stability, Roosevelt sought to ensure that all Americans had the opportunity to pursue their own version of the American dream and participate fully in society.

Overall, the definition of freedom evolved during the New Deal to encompass not only civil and political liberties, but also economic security as a necessary component of personal freedom. Roosevelt's belief in the political condition of economic security as a foundation for personal freedom laid the groundwork for the modern understanding of freedom as encompassing both civil and economic rights.