In 1933, in the midst of the depression, the United States government under President Franklin D. Roosevelt enacted a series of sweeping measures popularly known as the New Deal. Although these programs were supported by most Latter-day Saints, Church leaders were concerned that some Saints could succumb to a “dole mentality.” President Grant sadly acknowledged:
“Many people have said, . . . ‘Well, others are getting some [government relief], why should not I get some of it?’
“I believe that there is a growing disposition among the people to try to get something from the government of the United States with little hope of ever paying it back. I think this is all wrong.” 4
4. In Conference Report, Oct. 1933, p. 5.
The Fairest Gem 