How the New Deal Built Florida Tourism

In this illuminating audiobook, David Nelson challenges the traditional view that Florida's tourism industry faltered during the Great Depression, asserting instead that the 1930s laid the groundwork for modern tourism in the state. He explores the pivotal role of federal initiatives like the New Deal and the Civilian Conservation Corps in shaping Florida's image as a tropical paradise, highlighting how these programs created artificial landscapes that reinforced popular perceptions. By examining the interactions between state officials, business leaders, and residents, Nelson reveals how these developments transformed Florida's cultural identity and the ongoing commercialization of its natural resources.