A Retreat Fit for a President

Lesson 3

Video Transcript

Herbert Hoover was a Republican. When he was elected, that meant that he was a believer in smaller federal government, more state and local control and an emphasis on individual rights and responsibilities.

[Image] He demonstrated personal responsibility by helping to feed the children of Belgium through two World Wars.

Beginning with rationing food in China during the Boxer Rebellion in 1900 and continuing through feeding post World War II Europe, Hoover’s very life exemplified his concern and relief for the suffering.

[Image] After America entered World War I, Hoover was called home to organize his own country’s food supply.

President Woodrow Wilson appointed Hoover head of the U.S. Food Administration.

[Image] Posters encouraged people to eat different foods.

He instituted programs that called for “Meatless Mondays” and “Wheatless Wednesdays” and people were encouraged to plant “Victory Gardens.”

[Image] Posters encouraged the planting of Victory Gardens.

His success and popularity as Food Administrator helped to elect him as President.

When the country was doing well, Hoover’s ideas were accepted. When the country hit very difficult times, the citizens wanted him to do more.

[Image] As the depression deepened, there were cartoons critical of Hoover’s policies.

[Image] This elephant is the earliest symbol of the Republican Party.

[Image] After leaving office, President Hoover spoke at several Republican National Conventions.

Hoover’s basic philosophy never changed. He died in 1964 with the firm conviction that hope for our country tested in people helping each other and accepting that responsibility, rather than relying on the government to make things right.