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Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
National Recovery Administration (NRA) Volunteer Button
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.

National Recovery Administration (NRA) Volunteer Button

Object numberMO 1975.176.8
Name Button, Political
Maker
Dateca. 1933-1935
Mediummetal, paint
Dimensionsoverall Diam 3/4 in (1.9 cm )
DescriptionA round pinback button showing support for the National Recovery Administration (NRA). At the center of the white button is the NRA logo consisting of a solid blue eagle holding a gear in its right talon and bolts of lightning in its left talon, and the words "NRA / VOLUNTEER / U.S. / WE DO OUR PART" in red and blue text above, across, and below it.

Label TextA key element of FDR’s economic revival plan during his First 100 Days in office was the National Industrial Recovery Administration (NRA).

The NRA sought to end cut-throat competition that was reducing wages and prices to disastrous levels. It encouraged businesses in hundreds of industries to create codes of “fair competition.” The codes set maximum hours and minimum wages, guaranteed union rights, and prohibited child labor. Companies adopting the codes were exempt from anti-trust laws.

Participating businesses proudly displayed the NRA’s blue eagle symbol—with the slogan “We Do Our Part”—on their products. At some companies employees, and even customers, wore NRA buttons to proclaim their participation in the program and show their support. This particular button was intended to be worn by a NRA volunteer.

The NRA was also promoted in parades and rallies that became community events. These activities gave Americans a psychological lift, but the NRA proved ineffective. Its codes were unwieldy and, sometimes, ludicrous—including regulations for industries like shoulder pads, dog food, and burlesque theaters. Many codes favored larger businesses and encouraged monopolistic practices that hindered economic recovery. Few mourned when the NRA was declared unconstitutional in 1935.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteDonated to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum by Charles Seigel in 1975.
Credit LineGift of Charles Seigel
National Archives Catalog CollectionFranklin D. Roosevelt Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 735948)
National Archives Catalog SeriesArtifacts Relating to the New Deal (National Archives Identifier 750981)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedCopyrightReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
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