Making History Come Alive Newsletter Offers The Square Deal was a domestic program launched by President Theodore Roosevelt during his presidency

aimed to address the challenges of the early 20th century in the United States, which included economic inequality, corporate monopolies, and labor unrest. The Square Deal was characterized by Roosevelt's belief in fairness and justice for all Americans, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to governance that would protect the interests of both labor and business. Below is a comprehensive overview of the Square Deal, its components, and its lasting impact.

Key Principles of the Square Deal

The Square Deal was built upon several core principles, often summarized as the "three Cs":

1. Conservation: Roosevelt was a pioneer in the conservation movement, recognizing the need to protect the nation’s natural resources. He established numerous national parks, forests, and monuments to preserve the country’s natural beauty and biodiversity. Some key actions included:
- Establishment of National Parks: Roosevelt significantly expanded the National Park System, creating five national parks and 18 national monuments, including the Grand Canyon.
- U.S. Forest Service: He established the United States Forest Service in 1905, which allowed for the management and preservation of national forests, promoting sustainable use of natural resources.

2. Control of Corporations: Roosevelt was a vigorous opponent of monopolies and trusts that stifled competition and exploited consumers. He believed that the government should regulate large corporations to ensure fair business practices. Key initiatives included:
- Antitrust Actions: Roosevelt famously took on monopolies such as the Northern Securities Company, leading to a landmark Supreme Court case in 1904 that dissolved the railroad trust. His administration initiated over 44 antitrust lawsuits against various corporations.
- Hepburn Act of 1906: This legislation strengthened the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) by giving it the authority to set maximum railroad rates and regulate other forms of transportation, further curbing corporate power.

3. Consumer Protection: Roosevelt sought to protect consumers from unsafe products and deceptive business practices. His administration passed several important laws to ensure the safety and quality of food and medicine, including:
- Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906: This act prohibited the sale of adulterated or misbranded food and drugs, leading to the establishment of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
- Meat Inspection Act of 1906: This law mandated federal inspection of meat products and ensured sanitary conditions