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The English Poor Laws
Controlled the poor who could not obtain employment. Separated them into groups of "Deserving Poor" and "Undeserving Poor." Those who were deemed "undeserving" were forced to work for their needs and incarcerated if they refused. The "deserving poor" were given relief by the government. -
Colonial America
The government believed that being poor was a result of "moral weakness" and therefore did little to nothing to assist the poor. -
Civil War
Congress passed a bill that supported the mentally ill, however President Pierce vetoed it. After the civil war, many families lost their breadwinner, whether it was by death or permanent disability. As a result of this, homes were found for the disabled and money was raised to assist the sick/needy. -
The Great Depression
After the stock market crashed, many were left without jobs and ways to care of themselves and their families. President Hoover was against offering government assistance to those affected, and many social workers agreed with him. -
Post World War II
After years of issues within the United States, President Lyndon Johnson declared a "War on Poverty." Because of this, many programs were created to assist those in need. For example, Neighborhood Youth Corps was created for unemployed teenagers, a Community Action Program, and a Model Cities Program. -
New Federalism
Programs that "coddled the poor" were wiped out, and other assistance programs were created. For example, Supplemental Security Income, and the participation of Food Stamps by all states.The Family Assistance Program was created, which gave families of four (with no income) a guaranteed $1,600 from the government, though many did not like this program.