Meaning: The quote "In March of 1933 we witnessed a revolution in manner, in mores, in the definition of government. What before had been black or white sprang alive with color" by Emanuel Celler, a prominent American politician, captures the significant changes that occurred during this period in history. The statement reflects the transformative nature of the events that took place in March 1933, signaling a profound shift in societal norms, governance, and attitudes. To fully understand the context and implications of this quote, it is essential to explore the historical events that unfolded during this time.

March 1933 marked a pivotal moment in American history, as it was the month when President Franklin D. Roosevelt assumed office and began implementing his New Deal policies in response to the Great Depression. The United States was in the grip of economic turmoil, with widespread unemployment, poverty, and despair affecting millions of citizens. Roosevelt's inauguration and the subsequent flurry of legislative activity represented a departure from the status quo, signaling a radical departure from the laissez-faire economic policies that had dominated the country in the preceding decades.

Emanuel Celler's quote suggests that the changes brought about by the New Deal were not merely superficial but had a profound impact on the fabric of society. The "revolution in manner" alludes to the shift in societal attitudes and behaviors in response to the New Deal programs. The economic hardships faced by the American people had necessitated a reevaluation of traditional norms and values, as individuals and communities adapted to the challenges of the Great Depression. The quote implies that the once rigid and stark distinctions between different aspects of life were now imbued with vibrancy and complexity, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the changes taking place.

Moreover, Celler's reference to a revolution in the "definition of government" underscores the transformative impact of the New Deal on the role and responsibilities of the state. The expansion of government intervention in the economy, the implementation of social welfare programs, and the emergence of new regulatory agencies represented a significant departure from the limited role of the federal government in the pre-New Deal era. The quote suggests that the conventional understanding of the government's role underwent a profound redefinition, as it became more actively involved in addressing social and economic challenges.

The metaphor of things "sprang alive with color" evokes a sense of dynamism and optimism, indicating that the changes brought about by the New Deal injected new vitality and energy into American society. The quote implies that the previously stark and binary view of the world was replaced by a more nuanced and vibrant outlook, as people adapted to the evolving circumstances and opportunities presented by the New Deal programs.

In conclusion, Emanuel Celler's quote encapsulates the profound impact of the events of March 1933, particularly the implementation of the New Deal policies, on American society and governance. The quote reflects the transformative nature of the changes that occurred during this period, signaling a departure from the past and the emergence of a new era characterized by dynamism and complexity. By examining the historical context and significance of the quote, we gain a deeper understanding of the far-reaching implications of the events of March 1933 and their enduring legacy in American history.