Roosevelt went on the radio the following Sunday to explain to the American public what was being done about the banking situation. His manner was informal and friendly. He used accessible language that average citizens could understand to explain banking mechanics and let people know what they needed to do to help overcome the crisis: "You people must have faith; you must not be stampeded by rumors or guesses. Let us unite in banishing fear. We have provided the machinery to restore our financial system; and it is up to you to support and make it work." This was the first time radio was used in this way by a president. The press called Roosevelt's speech a "fireside chat" and this one and future ones proved to be very effective in allaying public fears throughout the Depression. When the banks opened the following week, more people...