Huey Long

Who was Huey Long?

Huey Long was the governor of Louisiana who was critical opponent of Roosevelt's New Deal. Long planned to run in the 1936 presidential election. He might have won had he not been assassinated in 1935.

Why did Huey Long oppose the New Deal?

Long was popular as governor of Louisiana because he taxed businesses heavily to pay for public schemes. He opposed the New Deal for two reasons:

• ❖ He believed the New Deal didn't do enough for the poor.
• ❖ He claimed the NRA was controlled by big business, that the AAA left poor farmers homeless and that Social Security failed as it kept the poor poor.

What did Huey Long do about the New Deal?

He started the 'Share Our Wealth' scheme in 1934 and use it to provide everyone with a yearly income of $2,500. About eight million Americans joined the Share Our Wealth clubs.

• ❖ He suggested limiting personal fortunes to a maximum of $3 million.
• ❖ He proposed preventing anyone from making more than $1 million a year.
• ❖ He suggested free washing machines and radios for all Americans.
• ❖ He wanted to provide everyone with a yearly income of $2,500.
• ❖ He suggested old-age pensions for everyone over 60.

How popular was Huey Long?

Huey Long's ideas were popular. About 8 million Americans joined the 'Share our Wealth' scheme.