On May 1, 1930, President Herbert Hoover addressed the annual dinner of the United States Chamber of Commerce. "While the crash only took place six months ago, I am convinced we have now passed the worst and with continued unity of effort we shall rapidly recover. There is one certainty in the future of a people of the resources, intelligence, and character of the people of the United States-- that is prosperity."

Based on these beliefs, what actions did President Hoover take in response to the Great Depression?

A. He ordered emergency federal relief payments to the unemployed

B. He offered limited federal assistance directed primarily to businesses and banks

C. He refused to take any measures at all as a violation of laissez-faire principles

D. He introduced a large number of public projects to increase employment