Summarize.
FDR opens by stating that he will do just as the people expect from him by speaking very frankly about the times, as he is not afraid of these problems, nor should the people be. "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself". He then points out that these problems are thankfully only material, within the economy, the greatest of which is that unemployment has skyrocketed. However, he points out these problems did not come from lack of substance, but rather lack of competence from those who controlled it in the form of credit.
FDR then says that action needs to be taken. First, by finding jobs for people. Secondly, by redistributing the economy to raise the value of agricultural endeavors and lowering government taxes. And lastly, by setting up a system so that an economic depression of this magnitude can never happen again; namely by supervising banking and creditors and ending speculation of money. He promises to immediately put into effect this plan of action.
He then encourages something of isolationism while the nation puts itself back together economically, and encourages the American people to turn to and help each other in order to recover. He then also describes that the greatness of the Constitution comes from its flexibility, and he admits that he may need to use that flexibility in order to take action swiftly and effectively. He ends by asking God to protect the American people and help guide him as the country's leader during these times.
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