Until the new deal the basic approach of government in the United states for handling a depression was to?

Until the New Deal, the basic approach of the U.S. government in handling a depression was largely characterized by limited intervention in the economy. The prevailing belief was in a laissez-faire approach, where the government would not heavily interfere, allowing market forces to adjust naturally. This meant that during economic downturns, the focus was more on maintaining a balanced budget rather than implementing direct relief or recovery measures. As a result, many people suffered while waiting for the economy to self-correct.