Taxes in U.S. History: The Social Security Act of 1935

With throngs of Americans out of work and hungry, Franklin D. Roosevelt made the bold move to establish a social safety net with programs such as Social Security. The move was—and still is—controversial. Using documents from the 1930s,...

A very interesting discussion of the potential problems that plagued the implementation of the Social Security Act. Read about the cases brought before the Supreme Court which gave Congress the constitutional ability to tax and spend for...

Take the opportunity to offer your young adults some important financial wisdom on the way taxes and inflation will affect their lives in the future. Through discussion and review of different real-world scenarios provided...

Here is an excellent breakdown of what Social Security is in the United States, including its purpose, benefactors, sources of income, and areas of investment. The video compares a traditional retirement account with Social Security, and...

Should Social Security be privatized, or is the government program fine just the way it is? Scholars read pro and con arguments and watch videos to learn more about the debate topic. Pupils also have an opportunity to interact with other...

This lesson plan will help young scholars understand the history and purpose of the Social Security Act of 1935 and the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA).

What does social security reveal about the political and social culture of the 1930s? After beginning with a brief introductory video on the impact of the Great Depression and how various Americans, such as Huey Long and Francis...

This very complete lesson plan explains the history of the Social Security Act of 1935, its history and importance to the elderly during the Great Depression, and its importance today. Everything necessary to teach the lesson and assess...

Here is a speech given by Frances Perkins, Secretary of Labor in the administration of Franklin Roosevelt, praising the passage of the Social Security Act in 1935. See how this groundbreaking legislation would help the elderly, disabled,...

Young scholars examine the Social Security Act of 1935. In this U.S. history lesson, students research primary sources in order to prepare for a mock debate of the act prior to it becoming legislation.