1.
During the 1930's the government spent more money than it took in from taxes in an attempt to improve the economy. What is the policy of spending more money than the government receives in revenue?
Correct Answer
A. Deficit spending
Explanation
During the 1930s, the government implemented a policy of deficit spending, which involved spending more money than it collected in taxes. This was done in an effort to stimulate and improve the economy. By injecting additional funds into various sectors, the government aimed to create jobs, boost consumer spending, and encourage economic growth. This policy was part of the broader economic strategy known as the New Deal, which included various measures to combat the effects of the Great Depression. The other options listed (new deal spending, Glass Steagall spending, National Industrial Recovery spending) are not accurate descriptions of the policy of spending more money than the government receives in revenue.
2.
The Works Progess Administration's (WPA) immediate goal was to ______________________
Correct Answer
C. Create as many jobs as possible
Explanation
The correct answer is "create as many jobs as possible." The Works Progress Administration (WPA) was a program implemented during the Great Depression in the United States. Its primary objective was to provide employment opportunities for millions of unemployed Americans. The WPA aimed to stimulate the economy by creating jobs in various sectors, such as infrastructure, construction, and the arts. By offering employment to individuals, the WPA aimed to alleviate poverty and promote economic recovery.
3.
What is the point of the Wagner Act?
Correct Answer
B. To provide protection for labor unions and improve working conditions
Explanation
The Wagner Act, also known as the National Labor Relations Act, was enacted in 1935 to protect the rights of workers to form labor unions, engage in collective bargaining, and improve working conditions. It aimed to address the power imbalance between employers and employees, ensuring that workers had the ability to negotiate fair wages, hours, and working conditions. The act also established the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to enforce these rights and mediate labor disputes. Therefore, the correct answer is to provide protection for labor unions and improve working conditions.
4.
Who played a key role in advising FDR to hire minorties and women?
Correct Answer
B. Eleanor Roosevelt
Explanation
Eleanor Roosevelt played a key role in advising FDR to hire minorities and women. As the First Lady, she was a strong advocate for civil rights and women's rights. She actively supported and promoted the inclusion of minorities and women in the workforce, using her influence and position to push for equal opportunities. Her efforts helped to shape FDR's policies and initiatives, leading to increased diversity and representation in the government and other sectors.
5.
Which New Deal organization is most likely responsible for this mural in the Ames post office?
Correct Answer
B. Works Progress Administration
Explanation
The Works Progress Administration (WPA) is most likely responsible for the mural in the Ames post office. The WPA was a New Deal organization that aimed to provide employment to millions of Americans during the Great Depression. One of the ways they achieved this was through the Federal Art Project, which employed artists to create public art, including murals, across the country. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that the mural in the Ames post office was created by artists employed by the WPA's Federal Art Project.
6.
Orson Wells created nation wide panic with_______________________
Correct Answer
C. War of the Worlds
Explanation
Orson Welles created nationwide panic with "War of the Worlds". This was a radio broadcast adaptation of H.G. Wells' science fiction novel that aired on October 30, 1938. The broadcast was presented as a series of news bulletins reporting an alien invasion, causing many listeners to believe that it was a real event. The realistic format and the fact that some listeners tuned in after the introduction led to widespread panic and confusion, with people fleeing their homes and calling authorities. This incident demonstrated the power of mass media and the potential for misinformation to cause fear and panic.
7.
The name of Franklin D. Roosevelt's plan to help the United States recover from the Great Depression was called the Real Deal for Recovery
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because the correct name of Franklin D. Roosevelt's plan to help the United States recover from the Great Depression was called the New Deal, not the Real Deal for Recovery. The New Deal was a series of economic programs and reforms implemented by Roosevelt's administration to provide relief, recovery, and reform to the country during the 1930s.
8.
President Roosevelt used radio talks to explain several of the government's new agencies introduced during the New Deal and to gather support for his plan to combat the New Deal. What were these radio talks called?
Correct Answer
A. Fireside chats
Explanation
President Roosevelt used radio talks called "Fireside chats" to explain several of the government's new agencies introduced during the New Deal and to gather support for his plan to combat the New Deal. These chats were informal and conversational in nature, aimed at connecting with the American people and reassuring them about the government's actions and plans. By using this medium, Roosevelt was able to effectively communicate his policies and build public support for his initiatives.
9.
1934- Fireside Chat
I am happy to report that after years of uncertainty, culminating in the collapse of the spring of 1933, we are bringing order out of the old chaos with a greater certainty of the employment of labor at a reasonable wage and of more business at a fair profit. These governmental and industrial developments hold promise of new achievements for the nation.
Men may differ as to the particular form of governmental activity with respect to industry and business, but nearly all are agreed that private enterprise in times such as these cannot be left without assistance and without reasonable safeguards lest it destroy not only itself but also our processes of civilization.
It was in this spirit … that we approached our task of reviving private enterprise in March, 1933. Our first problem was, of course, the banking situation because, as you know, the banks had collapsed. Some banks could not be saved but the great majority of them, either through their own resources or with government aid, have been restored to complete public confidence. This has given safety to millions of depositors in these banks. Closely following this great constructive effort we have, through various Federal agencies, saved debtors and creditors alike in many other fields of enterprise, such as loans on farm mortgages and home mortgages; loans to the railroads and insurance companies and, finally, help for home owners and industry itself…
The second step we have taken in the restoration of normal business enterprise has been to clean up thoroughly unwholesome conditions in the field of investment…The country now enjoys the safety of bank savings under the new banking laws, the careful checking of new securities under the Securities Act and the curtailment of rank stock speculation through the Securities Exchange Act…
The emergency purpose of the N. R. A. was to put men to work and since its creation more than four million persons have been re-employed, in great part through the cooperation of American business brought about under the codes.
Benefits of the Industrial Recovery Program have come, not only to labor in the form of new jobs, in relief from over-work and in relief from under-pay, but also to the owners and managers of industry because, together with a great increase in the payrolls, there has come a substantial rise in the total of industrial profits – a rise from a deficit figure in the first quarter of 1933 to a level of sustained profits within one year from the inauguration of N. R. A.
Who is most likely the author of this primary document?
Correct Answer
D. Franklin D. Roosevelt
Explanation
The primary document is a transcript of a Fireside Chat, which was a series of radio addresses given by Franklin D. Roosevelt during his presidency. In the document, the author discusses the government's efforts to bring order and stability to the economy after the Great Depression. The author also mentions specific policies and programs implemented by the government, such as the National Recovery Administration (NRA) and the Securities Act. These were all initiatives associated with Roosevelt's New Deal, making him the most likely author of the document.
10.
1934- Fireside Chat
I am happy to report that after years of uncertainty, culminating in the collapse of the spring of 1933, we are bringing order out of the old chaos with a greater certainty of the employment of labor at a reasonable wage and of more business at a fair profit. These governmental and industrial developments hold promise of new achievements for the nation.
Men may differ as to the particular form of governmental activity with respect to industry and business, but nearly all are agreed that private enterprise in times such as these cannot be left without assistance and without reasonable safeguards lest it destroy not only itself but also our processes of civilization.
It was in this spirit … that we approached our task of reviving private enterprise in March, 1933. Our first problem was, of course, the banking situation because, as you know, the banks had collapsed. Some banks could not be saved but the great majority of them, either through their own resources or with government aid, have been restored to complete public confidence. This has given safety to millions of depositors in these banks. Closely following this great constructive effort we have, through various Federal agencies, saved debtors and creditors alike in many other fields of enterprise, such as loans on farm mortgages and home mortgages; loans to the railroads and insurance companies and, finally, help for home owners and industry itself…
The second step we have taken in the restoration of normal business enterprise has been to clean up thoroughly unwholesome conditions in the field of investment…The country now enjoys the safety of bank savings under the new banking laws, the careful checking of new securities under the Securities Act and the curtailment of rank stock speculation through the Securities Exchange Act…
The emergency purpose of the N. R. A. was to put men to work and since its creation more than four million persons have been re-employed, in great part through the cooperation of American business brought about under the codes.
Benefits of the Industrial Recovery Program have come, not only to labor in the form of new jobs, in relief from over-work and in relief from under-pay, but also to the owners and managers of industry because, together with a great increase in the payrolls, there has come a substantial rise in the total of industrial profits – a rise from a deficit figure in the first quarter of 1933 to a level of sustained profits within one year from the inauguration of N. R. A.
According to the document, why does the author think that the government needed to fix the banking situation?
Correct Answer
C. Because it has given safety to Americans who deposit their money in banks.
Explanation
The author thinks that the government needed to fix the banking situation because it has given safety to Americans who deposit their money in banks. The collapse of the banks in the spring of 1933 created uncertainty and chaos, and the author believes that private enterprise in times like these cannot be left without assistance and safeguards. By restoring public confidence in the banks through their own resources or with government aid, millions of depositors have been provided with safety for their money. This action was necessary to protect not only the banks but also the processes of civilization.
11.
1934- Fireside Chat
I am happy to report that after years of uncertainty, culminating in the collapse of the spring of 1933, we are bringing order out of the old chaos with a greater certainty of the employment of labor at a reasonable wage and of more business at a fair profit. These governmental and industrial developments hold promise of new achievements for the nation.
Men may differ as to the particular form of governmental activity with respect to industry and business, but nearly all are agreed that private enterprise in times such as these cannot be left without assistance and without reasonable safeguards lest it destroy not only itself but also our processes of civilization.
It was in this spirit … that we approached our task of reviving private enterprise in March, 1933. Our first problem was, of course, the banking situation because, as you know, the banks had collapsed. Some banks could not be saved but the great majority of them, either through their own resources or with government aid, have been restored to complete public confidence. This has given safety to millions of depositors in these banks. Closely following this great constructive effort we have, through various Federal agencies, saved debtors and creditors alike in many other fields of enterprise, such as loans on farm mortgages and home mortgages; loans to the railroads and insurance companies and, finally, help for home owners and industry itself…
The second step we have taken in the restoration of normal business enterprise has been to clean up thoroughly unwholesome conditions in the field of investment…The country now enjoys the safety of bank savings under the new banking laws, the careful checking of new securities under the Securities Act and the curtailment of rank stock speculation through the Securities Exchange Act…
The emergency purpose of the N. R. A. was to put men to work and since its creation more than four million persons have been re-employed, in great part through the cooperation of American business brought about under the codes.
Benefits of the Industrial Recovery Program have come, not only to labor in the form of new jobs, in relief from over-work and in relief from under-pay, but also to the owners and managers of industry because, together with a great increase in the payrolls, there has come a substantial rise in the total of industrial profits – a rise from a deficit figure in the first quarter of 1933 to a level of sustained profits within one year from the inauguration of N. R. A.
According to the author of the document what did the National Recovery Act do?
Correct Answer
A. It has put men to work
Explanation
The author of the document states that the National Recovery Act (N.R.A.) has put men to work. This is supported by the statement that since the creation of the N.R.A., more than four million persons have been re-employed, in great part through the cooperation of American business brought about under the codes. This indicates that the N.R.A. played a role in increasing employment opportunities for men.
12.
1934- Fireside Chat
I am happy to report that after years of uncertainty, culminating in the collapse of the spring of 1933, we are bringing order out of the old chaos with a greater certainty of the employment of labor at a reasonable wage and of more business at a fair profit. These governmental and industrial developments hold promise of new achievements for the nation.
Men may differ as to the particular form of governmental activity with respect to industry and business, but nearly all are agreed that private enterprise in times such as these cannot be left without assistance and without reasonable safeguards lest it destroy not only itself but also our processes of civilization.
It was in this spirit … that we approached our task of reviving private enterprise in March, 1933. Our first problem was, of course, the banking situation because, as you know, the banks had collapsed. Some banks could not be saved but the great majority of them, either through their own resources or with government aid, have been restored to complete public confidence. This has given safety to millions of depositors in these banks. Closely following this great constructive effort we have, through various Federal agencies, saved debtors and creditors alike in many other fields of enterprise, such as loans on farm mortgages and home mortgages; loans to the railroads and insurance companies and, finally, help for home owners and industry itself…
The second step we have taken in the restoration of normal business enterprise has been to clean up thoroughly unwholesome conditions in the field of investment…The country now enjoys the safety of bank savings under the new banking laws, the careful checking of new securities under the Securities Act and the curtailment of rank stock speculation through the Securities Exchange Act…
The emergency purpose of the N. R. A. was to put men to work and since its creation more than four million persons have been re-employed, in great part through the cooperation of American business brought about under the codes.
Benefits of the Industrial Recovery Program have come, not only to labor in the form of new jobs, in relief from over-work and in relief from under-pay, but also to the owners and managers of industry because, together with a great increase in the payrolls, there has come a substantial rise in the total of industrial profits – a rise from a deficit figure in the first quarter of 1933 to a level of sustained profits within one year from the inauguration of N. R. A.
What are the two main topics of the fireside chat?
Correct Answer
A. Banks and Jobs
Explanation
The two main topics of the fireside chat are banks and jobs. The chat mentions the collapse of banks in 1933 and the efforts made to restore them to public confidence. It also discusses the creation of jobs through the National Recovery Administration (N.R.A) and the re-employment of over four million people. Therefore, the chat focuses on the importance of stabilizing the banking system and providing employment opportunities.
13.
Who does the seated man represent?
Correct Answer
C. The American public
Explanation
The seated man represents the American public because he is not identified as a specific individual such as Franklin D. Roosevelt or Herbert Hoover. Instead, he is a symbol for the general population of the United States.
14.
Which character is portrayed as the doctor in this document?
Correct Answer
A. Franklin D. Roosevelt
Explanation
Franklin D. Roosevelt is portrayed as the doctor in this document. This implies that he is seen as someone who can diagnose and prescribe solutions for the problems faced by the United States during his presidency. It suggests that he is perceived as a leader who can heal and bring about positive change for the country.
15.
What do each of the bottles on the table represent?
Correct Answer
C. New Deal Agencies that were created to combat the "sick" economy
Explanation
The bottles on the table represent New Deal Agencies that were created to combat the "sick" economy. The New Deal was a series of programs and policies implemented by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in response to the Great Depression. These agencies were established to provide relief, recovery, and reform to the economy and society. The term "sick" economy refers to the state of the economy during the Great Depression, which was characterized by high unemployment, poverty, and a lack of economic growth. The bottles symbolize the various agencies that were created to address these issues and revive the economy.
16.
Which of the following New Deal laws created old-age retirement benefits during the Great Depression?
Correct Answer
D. Social Security Act
Explanation
The Social Security Act created old-age retirement benefits during the Great Depression. This legislation was a key component of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal, aimed at providing economic relief and security to Americans. The Social Security Act established a system of social insurance, including retirement benefits, for workers and their families. It was designed to provide financial support to individuals during their retirement years and help alleviate poverty among the elderly population.
17.
Which New Deal legislation created an insurance program for people who deposited money in banks?
Correct Answer
C. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)
Explanation
The correct answer is Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). The FDIC was established in 1933 as part of the New Deal legislation. It created an insurance program that provided protection for people who deposited money in banks. This program aimed to restore confidence in the banking system after the Great Depression by ensuring that people's deposits would be safe even if a bank failed. The FDIC continues to operate today, insuring deposits in banks and promoting stability in the financial system.
18.
Beginning in 1929, migrant workes from this group, were deported by the thousands in an effort by the U.S. government to reduce competition for jobs.
Correct Answer
D. Mexican-Americans
Explanation
During the Great Depression in the 1930s, the U.S. government implemented a program called the Mexican Repatriation. This program aimed to reduce competition for jobs by deporting Mexican-Americans, who were often working in low-wage labor positions. Thousands of Mexican-Americans were forcibly deported, even if they were U.S. citizens. This discriminatory policy disproportionately affected Mexican-Americans, leading to the separation of families and the loss of homes and livelihoods.
19.
The New Deal coalition is a broad range of groups that supported the Democratic party in the 1930's and 1940's. This coalition consisted of Southern whites, urban residents, African-Americans, Mexican Americans, and industrial workers
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The New Deal coalition was indeed a broad range of groups that supported the Democratic party during the 1930s and 1940s. This coalition included Southern whites, urban residents, African-Americans, Mexican Americans, and industrial workers. These diverse groups came together to support the Democratic party's policies and initiatives, particularly those related to economic recovery and social welfare programs implemented during the Great Depression. This coalition played a significant role in shaping American politics during this period.
20.
F. Perkins became the first ____________ to reach the highest levels of U.S. govenment when he/she became a cabinet member in Franklin D. Roosevelt's administration
Correct Answer
B. Woman
Explanation
Perkins became the first woman to reach the highest levels of U.S. government when she became a cabinet member in Franklin D. Roosevelt's administration. This signifies a significant milestone in gender equality and women's empowerment, as it broke the glass ceiling and opened doors for future women leaders in the government. Perkins' achievement paved the way for increased representation and opportunities for women in politics and decision-making roles.
21.
Which of the following New Deal Agencies hired young men between the ages of 18-25 to work on environmental projects that included creating parks, trails, planting trees, and helping in soil-erosion.
Correct Answer
B. Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC)
Explanation
The correct answer is the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The CCC was a New Deal agency that hired young men to work on environmental projects. These projects included creating parks, trails, planting trees, and helping with soil-erosion. The CCC aimed to provide employment opportunities for young men during the Great Depression while also addressing environmental conservation and land management issues. This agency played a significant role in the development of national parks and the conservation of natural resources in the United States.
22.
Huey Long and Father Coughlin were critics of FDR and his policies. They focused their speeches on freedom and income equality. They claimed they spoke for the people and against the elites. This uniquely American speech pattern is called __________
Correct Answer
B. Populism
Explanation
Huey Long and Father Coughlin were critics of FDR and his policies, focusing their speeches on freedom and income equality. They claimed to speak for the people and against the elites. This aligns with the concept of populism, which refers to a political ideology that emphasizes the interests and concerns of ordinary people, often presenting them as being at odds with the elite or establishment. Populism seeks to appeal to the general population and gain their support by championing their needs and grievances.
23.
Which of the following, at one point or another, did not agree with the New Deal FDR proposed
Correct Answer
D. All options
Explanation
All of the options, including Huey Long, Herbert Hoover, the Supreme Court, and Charles Coughlin, at some point did not agree with the New Deal proposed by FDR. The New Deal was a series of economic programs implemented to combat the Great Depression in the 1930s. Huey Long, a senator from Louisiana, had his own plan called "Share Our Wealth" which proposed wealth redistribution and criticized FDR's New Deal for not doing enough. Herbert Hoover, who was the President before FDR, believed in limited government intervention and opposed many of the New Deal policies. The Supreme Court also struck down some New Deal legislation, deeming it unconstitutional. Charles Coughlin, a Catholic priest and radio host, initially supported FDR but later turned against him, criticizing the New Deal for not going far enough to address economic issues.
24.
Which of the following was NOT a goal of the New Deal?
Correct Answer
D. Revolution that would make all poor people wealthy
Explanation
The New Deal was a set of policies implemented by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in response to the Great Depression. It aimed to achieve three main goals: recovery, reform, and relief. The first goal was to promote economic recovery by implementing measures to stimulate the economy and create jobs. The second goal was to introduce reforms that would prevent another economic crisis, such as regulations on the banking system and the creation of social security. The third goal was to provide relief for the needy through programs like unemployment benefits and welfare. However, the New Deal did not aim to achieve a revolution that would make all poor people wealthy.
25.
Which of the following agencies attempted to accomplish the goal of economic reform that would prevent another Great Depression?
Correct Answer
C. Glass-Steagal Banking Act
Explanation
The Glass-Steagal Banking Act attempted to accomplish the goal of economic reform that would prevent another Great Depression. This act was passed in 1933 and aimed to regulate the banking industry by separating commercial and investment banking activities. It established the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to provide insurance for bank deposits, which helped restore public confidence in the banking system. The Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA) focused on agricultural price stabilization, while the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) aimed to provide employment for young men in conservation projects. However, it was the Glass-Steagal Banking Act that specifically addressed the need for economic reform to prevent another economic crisis.
26.
The Social Security Act's major parts include all of the following EXCEPT:
Correct Answer
C. Home loans for struggling homeowners
Explanation
The Social Security Act, enacted in 1935, aimed to provide financial assistance and security to the American population. It included various provisions such as old-age retirement benefits, unemployment insurance, and financial aid to the disabled. However, it did not include home loans for struggling homeowners. This means that the Social Security Act did not have provisions specifically addressing housing assistance for homeowners facing financial difficulties.
27.
This 1930 painting became one of the most famous and enduring 1930 piece of art. It is currently valued in the millions of dollars. The painting depicts two Iowans and was painted by this Iowan.
Correct Answer
B. Grant Wood
Explanation
Grant Wood is the correct answer because he was an Iowan painter who created the famous painting in 1930. The painting is highly regarded and valued in the millions of dollars, making it one of the most famous and enduring pieces of art from that year. Woody Guthrie, Clark Gable, and Orson Welles are not associated with this painting or known for their painting skills.
28.
This 1930 painting became one of the most famous and enduring 1930 piece of art. What is the name of the painting?
Correct Answer
A. American Gothic
Explanation
American Gothic is a famous and enduring 1930 painting. It is known for its iconic depiction of a farmer and his daughter standing in front of a house. The painting, created by Grant Wood, has become a symbol of American culture and is often parodied and referenced in popular culture. Its realistic style and portrayal of rural life in America during the Great Depression have contributed to its lasting impact and recognition in the art world.
29.
What New Deal law changed the policy of the U.S. government towards Native Americans in a drastic way. It allowed Native Americans to be independent and make many decisions for themselves. Including, electing their leaders, sending Native American youth to schools of their choice, and given back land.
Correct Answer
A. Indian Reorganization Act
Explanation
The Indian Reorganization Act was a New Deal law that significantly changed the U.S. government's policy towards Native Americans. It granted Native Americans more independence and the ability to make decisions for themselves. This included the right to elect their own leaders, send Native American youth to schools of their choice, and regain control of their land. The other options, Civilian Conservations Corps, Indian Removal Act, and Federal Housing Administration, do not align with the given description of the law.
30.
This actor _______________ created a nationwide panic by broadcasting "________________________" which stated that martians had invaded the Earth on a radio program.
Correct Answer
B. Orson Welles, War of the Worlds
Explanation
Orson Welles is the correct answer because he created a nationwide panic by broadcasting "War of the Worlds" which stated that martians had invaded the Earth on a radio program.
31.
In the 1930's the enactment of the New Deal laws demonstrated a belief that:
Correct Answer
C. The federal government must concern itself with the economic well being of individuals
Explanation
The enactment of the New Deal laws in the 1930s demonstrated a belief that the federal government must concern itself with the economic well-being of individuals. This is because the New Deal was a series of programs and policies implemented by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to address the Great Depression and provide relief to those affected by it. These programs aimed to stimulate economic recovery, create jobs, and provide social and financial assistance to individuals and families. The New Deal marked a shift in government involvement in the economy, showing a recognition that the federal government had a responsibility to intervene and support the economic well-being of its citizens.
32.
In this cartoon the cartoonist seems to be criticizing what?
Correct Answer
A. President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s plan to increase the number of Supreme Court Justices
Explanation
The cartoonist is criticizing President Franklin D. Roosevelt's plan to increase the number of Supreme Court Justices.
33.
A major criticism of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal Programs to combat the Great Depression was that these programs:
Correct Answer
D. Made people dependendent on the Federal government
Explanation
The major criticism of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal Programs was that they made people dependent on the Federal government. These programs aimed to provide relief, recovery, and reform during the Great Depression, but some argued that they created a culture of dependency on the government. Critics believed that the government should not have such a large role in citizens' lives and that individuals should be more self-reliant. This criticism suggests that the New Deal Programs undermined personal responsibility and independence.
34.
President Franklin D. Roosevelt's response to Supreme Court decisions that declared several New Deal laws unconstitutional was to:
Correct Answer
B. Propose legislation to increase the size of the Court
Explanation
President Franklin D. Roosevelt's response to Supreme Court decisions that declared several New Deal laws unconstitutional was to propose legislation to increase the size of the Court. This response, known as the "court-packing plan," aimed to add additional justices to the Supreme Court, allowing Roosevelt to appoint justices who would be more supportive of his policies. By increasing the size of the Court, Roosevelt hoped to shift the balance of power in his favor and ensure the constitutionality of his New Deal programs. This move was seen as an attempt to undermine the independence of the judiciary and sparked significant controversy and opposition.