American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What was the primary focus of the Emergency Relief Act of 1935?

1. Urban expansion and high-rise construction

2. Relocation of farmers for better agricultural conditions

3. Creation of new national parks

4. Support for urban public housing

The correct answer is: Relocation of farmers for better agricultural conditions

The primary focus of the Emergency Relief Act of 1935 was indeed to address critical issues facing the nation during the Great Depression, particularly the plight of farmers. The act aimed to provide relief to those affected by economic hardship, including the relocation of farmers who were struggling with drought and poor farming conditions. This initiative was part of a broader effort to improve agricultural production and enhance the livelihoods of those in rural areas. By providing support and resources for the relocation of farmers, the act sought to foster better agricultural conditions, ultimately aiming to stabilize the economy and assist those who relied on agriculture for their livelihoods. The other options, while relevant to the broader context of economic recovery efforts during the 1930s, do not accurately represent the core intent of the Emergency Relief Act of 1935. Urban expansion, the creation of national parks, and support for urban public housing were initiatives that related to different aspects of the New Deal, but they were not the primary focus of this particular legislation.