Which statement best describes Bennett's handling of the Depression?

• A. He did not anticipate the severity and did not act quickly to stop the downturn.
• B. He anticipated the downturn and acted quickly with major reforms.
• C. He implemented a large-scale social welfare program during the early 1930s.
• D. He reduced tariffs to promote international trade.

Answer: (B)

Bennett’s response shows how a government can shift from limited intervention to active, policy-driven relief during a deep downturn. He recognized that the Depression would persist and moved quickly to put in place major reforms and institutions to stabilize the economy and help people. Notable steps included establishing the Bank of Canada in 1934 to oversee monetary policy, launching relief and public‑works programs to create jobs, and enacting measures to aid farmers through the Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Act of 1935. He also proposed broader social reforms under what was called the Bennett New Deal, aiming for unemployment insurance and labor standards. While his reforms were ambitious and contested, they reflect an active, proactive approach rather than a wait‑and‑see stance. In contrast, reducing tariffs or relying on limited relief would not capture the scope or direction of his actions.