What was the New Deal primarily aimed at addressing?

The New Deal was primarily focused on recovering the U.S. economy from the Great Depression, which began in 1929 and had devastating effects on American society, including massive unemployment, bank failures, and widespread poverty. Introduced by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the New Deal consisted of a series of programs, public work projects, financial reforms, and regulations aimed specifically at revitalizing the economy and providing relief to those suffering the consequences of the Depression.

The New Deal's initiatives included job creation programs, such as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the Works Progress Administration (WPA), as well as financial reforms through the establishment of the Social Security Act and the Securities Exchange Commission (SEC). These measures aimed to restore public confidence, stabilize the economy, and provide support for the unemployed and marginalized groups.

While other choices touch on significant issues, they do not encapsulate the primary goals of the New Deal. Housing shortages or military spending were not the central focus of Roosevelt's initiatives during this period, and expanding U.S. influence abroad was not directly related to the immediate challenges posed by the Great Depression. Hence, the emphasis on economic recovery through comprehensive legislation and programs represents the essence of the New Deal's objectives.