Does History Really Repeat Itself?

Does this sound familiar?

The Presidental campaign of 2008 was fought out in a country deep in the trough of depression. It is now the fashion of some economists and certain critics of the Obama plan to say that recovery was beginning in the summer of 2008. Certainly, by the fall of 2008 no one realized it. Mr. Bush (McCain) ran on a "do-nothing, let nature take its course" sort of platform. Mr. Obama was going to do something, but was not very specific about what he was going to do. He earned a reputation as a shrewd politician but there was nothing in his record as Senator from Illinois to warrant any general expectation that he would be a strong man in a crisis. He was clever enough to know that he did not have to commit himself, that the people were so determined to get Bush (McCain) out that his wisest course would be to avoid commitments which might offend his potential supporters. Minority candidates spoke to large audiences and did discuss real issues, but, the very audiences which applauded them made it clear that their set purpose was to eliminate Bush (McCain). This was done. Mr. Obama was elected by an immense popular and electoral college majority, but with less of a devoted following than some of his defeated Democratic predecessors.

Now change Bush (McCain) to Hoover, Obama to F. Roosevelt, 2008 to 1932, senator from Illinois to governor of New York, depression to recession.

The New Deal, Doctrines and Democracy, edited by Bernard Sternsher
Article: The New Deal in America, by Norman Thomas