The Titans That Built America Season 1 Episode 2 Titans vs. FDR

The Titans That Built America is a historical documentary series that delves into the lives and legacies of some of the most influential and wealthy tycoons of the early 20th century. From the birth of modern-day America to the end of the Second World War, this series chronicles the journey of industrial pioneers like JP Morgan, William Randolph Hearst, Andrew Carnegie, and Henry Ford. In episode two of season one, titled Titans vs. FDR, the show explores the dynamic between these business magnates and the political landscape, embodied by the 32nd President of the United States, Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

The episode sets the stage by delving into the Great Depression. The stock market crash of 1929 had propelled the US into an economic abyss, with millions of people losing their jobs, homes, and savings. As mass unemployment gripped the nation, many saw capitalism as a failed experiment and began advocating for socialism as the solution to the country's problems. With the Democrats winning a landslide victory and FDR assuming the presidency, the stage was set for a showdown between the "Titans" and the newly elected leader.

Immediately, the show highlights the tension between Roosevelt and the industrial elites. While FDR saw himself as a champion of the people, the Titans of industry saw him as a threat to their way of life. The show presents figures like JP Morgan and Henry Ford as staunch opponents of FDR's New Deal policies. They felt that government intervention was unwarranted and would only serve to cripple their businesses. Conversely, others like Andrew Carnegie attempted to straddle the line, stating that they were in favor of certain aspects of the New Deal, such as the provision of social security.

The rest of the episode chronicles the various political battles that ensued between the Titans and FDR. The show depicts JP Morgan as an orchestrator of behind-the-scenes efforts to undermine the New Deal, culminating in the Judiciary Reorganization Bill of 1937. This bill would have given FDR the power to appoint an additional nine Supreme Court Justices, allowing him to pack the courts in his favor. Morgan organized a campaign against this, seeing it as a blatant power grab by the executive branch.

Similarly, Henry Ford's opposition to FDR came to a head in his run for president in 1936. The show portrays Ford as a populist figure who believed that Roosevelt's policies were infringing on individual liberties. He criticized FDR for being too controlling and for following a socialist agenda. Ultimately, Ford lost the election decisively, with Roosevelt securing an overwhelming electoral victory.

The show goes on to depict the triumphs and failings of FDR's presidency and the relationship he had with the Titans. One particularly notable moment came during the Second World War, with FDR and Henry Ford temporarily putting aside their differences to mobilize the US for the war effort. The episode ends with a somber note, however, as it highlights FDR's death in 1945 and how it left a vacuum in the political landscape. The episode concludes by suggesting that the Titans of industry were never fully reconciled with FDR and what he stood for, and that their deep-seated skepticism of government intervention would persist for decades to come.

Overall, Titans vs. FDR is a gripping episode that tackles a fascinating period of American history. From the depths of the Great Depression to World War II, the show paints a vivid portrait of some of the most influential figures of the time and how they shaped the political landscape. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of the US, and a reminder of the complex choices that often face leaders who attempt to tackle societal issues that affect the fortunes of the many.