Three New Deals

Three New Deals examines the parallel developments between Roosevelt's New Deal in America and the economic programs of Hitler's Germany and Mussolini's Italy during the 1930s. The book traces how these three nations responded to the Great Depression through large-scale state intervention and public works projects. Schivelbusch analyzes specific policies and programs across the three regimes, from infrastructure initiatives to propaganda efforts. The narrative moves between the countries, comparing approaches to labor, industry, agriculture and social welfare while highlighting both similarities and key differences. The comparative study reveals how modern states wielded expanded powers during times of crisis, regardless of their political ideology. Through investigation of primary sources and historical records, the book reconstructs the social and economic landscape of the interwar period. This work raises questions about the nature of state power and the relationship between democracy and authoritarianism in times of national emergency. The parallels drawn challenge conventional categorizations of political systems while illuminating recurring patterns in how governments respond to economic collapse.

Readers appreciate Schivelbusch's detailed comparative analysis of public works, architecture, and propaganda across FDR's America, Nazi Germany, and Fascist Italy. Many note the book reveals uncomfortable parallels between the three regimes' attempts to mobilize their populations through grand infrastructure projects and cultural programs. Multiple reviewers cite the book's neutral, academic tone in handling sensitive historical comparisons. As one Amazon reviewer states: "The author avoids moral judgments and lets the historical evidence speak for itself." Common criticisms include: - Too narrow focus on aesthetics and infrastructure - Insufficient examination of key ideological differences - Limited discussion of the human costs under each regime Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (89 ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (28 ratings) Several academic reviewers note the book works better as a focused study of state aesthetics rather than a comprehensive comparison of the three political systems.

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🔹 Author Wolfgang Schivelbusch draws surprising parallels between FDR's New Deal, Mussolini's corporate state, and Hitler's Third Reich, showing how all three regimes used massive public works projects and modernization efforts to combat the Great Depression. 🔹 The term "New Deal" itself was inspired by card games, with FDR promising Americans a fresh deal of the cards after the economic collapse of 1929. 🔹 The book reveals how all three nations developed similar architectural styles during this period, favoring monumental structures that projected strength and permanence - from the Hoover Dam to Nazi parade grounds. 🔹 The author explains how both American and European leaders of the 1930s were influenced by the concept of "economic nationalism" - the idea that a nation should be as self-sufficient as possible. 🔹 Though these regimes are typically viewed as opposites, the book demonstrates how they shared similar propaganda techniques, including the use of radio addresses (FDR's Fireside Chats) and carefully staged public appearances to build popular support.