The New Deal, implemented during the 1930s by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, transformed the role of government in American life by expanding its responsibilities in economic and social welfare. It established a range of programs and reforms to combat the Great Depression, providing jobs, supporting agriculture, and implementing financial regulations. This marked a shift from minimal government intervention to a more active role in promoting economic stability and protecting citizens. The New Deal laid the foundation for the modern social safety net, influencing future policies and perceptions of government's role in economic affairs.