FDR's Infamous Executive Order 9066: A Dark Chapter in American History
During the presidency of Franklin D. Roosevelt, several controversial actions have been enacted, but none have gained as much infamy as Executive Order 9066. This executive order, issued on February 19, 1942, led to the confinement of Japanese Americans within internment camps, a decision that is widely regarded as one of the gravest errors of his presidency.
The Decision and Its Implementation
The backdrop of this order was the United States' entry into World War II following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Amidst heightened security and fear, Executive Order 9066 authorized the Secretary of War to designate military areas and evacuate anyone deemed dangerous to national security. This order led to the forced removal and relocation of over 120,000 Japanese Americans to internment camps, despite the absence of any demonstrated evidence of disloyalty or criminal activity.
Criticism and Apologies
The decision to intern Japanese Americans has been widely criticized, with many historians and politicians viewing it as a severe violation of civil liberties and the U.S. Constitution. Eleanor Roosevelt, Franklin D. Roosevelt's wife and an advocate for human rights, expressed her disapproval of the order and the consequences it had on American citizens. It was only in 1978, during the presidency of Presidential Gerald Ford, that the government issued a formal apology for this injustice.
The FDR and the Federal Reserve Act of 1913
Another significant, albeit less well-known, action taken by Franklin D. Roosevelt was the establishment of the Federal Reserve. While this was originally established by Congress in 1913, FDR's role was in reforming the Federal Reserve System. This act led to a shift in economic policy, transitioning the value of the dollar from being backed by tangible assets such as gold and silver to being based on speculation.
The Implications of the Federal Reserve Reform
The reform removed the dollar's direct link to gold or silver, effectively separating the value of the currency from any physical commodity. This shift meant that the value of the dollar became more dependent on the financial markets and economic forecasts, rather than hard assets. Consequently, the dollar lost much of its intrinsic value, leaving it subject to the whims of market speculation.
Absence of Tangible Backing
The removal of gold and silver backing had profound implications for the U.S. economy. Prior to this change, a dollar held real value because it could, in theory, be redeemed for gold or silver. However, after Executive Order 9066 and the reform of the Federal Reserve, the dollar lost its directly verifiable value, becoming a symbol of financial speculation instead. This transition was a departure from the traditional principles of monetary policy that had underpinned American financial stability for decades.
Legacies of FDR's Actions
Executive Order 9066 and the Federal Reserve reform represent two critical periods during Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidency. While the former is a stark reminder of the dangers of racism and xenophobia in times of national crisis, the latter marked the beginning of a new economic paradigm. These actions continue to shape the discourse around civil liberties, economic policies, and national security even today.
Conclusion
Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidency saw the enactment of several significant policies, among which Executive Order 9066 holds a place in infamy. Its effects on American society and values remain a subject of extensive discussion and reflection. Understanding these actions is crucial for understanding the complexities of American history and the ongoing challenges in balancing national security with constitutional rights.