Describe how the Columbia River project reflected broader changes in American life and thought during the New Deal of the 1930s.

The Columbia River project reflected broader changes in American life and thought during the New Deal of the 1930s in several ways. First, it was a part of the larger effort to combat the economic devastation of the Great Depression. The New Deal aimed to create jobs and stimulate the economy through large-scale public works projects, and the Columbia River project was a prime example of this approach.

Second, the project reflected a shift in American attitudes towards the role of government in society. The New Deal marked a departure from the laissez-faire approach of the previous decades, as the federal government took on a more active role in regulating the economy and providing social welfare programs. The Columbia River project was a massive undertaking that required significant government intervention and investment, signaling a new era of government involvement in infrastructure and economic development.

Additionally, the project reflected changing ideas about the environment and natural resources. The New Deal era saw the rise of conservation and environmental protection as important national priorities. The Columbia River project, with its focus on harnessing the river for hydroelectric power and irrigation, demonstrated a growing awareness of the potential of natural resources for economic development, while also raising questions about the impact of large-scale engineering projects on the environment.

Overall, the Columbia River project was a microcosm of the broader changes in American life and thought during the New Deal, showcasing the government's new role in stimulating the economy, regulating industry, and managing natural resources for the benefit of society.