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> C-SPAN in the
Classroom
> Social
Security |
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During his presidency, Franklin Delano Roosevelt promised a "New Deal". He wanted to improve the economic conditions under which the American people were living. In order to carry out his promise, Roosevelt looked to implement new social programs and get the country back on track. One of his most significant changes to American society was the design and implementation of the Social Security Act which was signed on August 14, 1935. Lessons on this page:
Social Security in the
Beginning Views from 2005 | |
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| Social Security in the Beginning |
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In the 1930's, as a result of the Great Depression, President
Franklin Delano Roosevelt sought to improve the economic insecurity in the United States by implementing a program of social insurance for the elderly. Social Security was set up as a system of income insurance for workers aged 65 or older. Workers make payments (a tax on their earnings) into a general trust fund. Retirees draw on this fund for income. In 1939 amendments to Social Security changed the system to a family-based program. Dependents (spouses and minor children) were now able to receive benefits in the event of a pre-mature death of a covered worker.
Roosevelt believed that the government had a responsibility to
provide economic security for citizens of the United States. |
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American Presidents
Watch Clip
(01/28/05)
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 | Booknotes, David Kennedy
Watch
Clip
(01/18/05)
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Discussion Questions
1. What did FDR envision the Social Security Act would include, but was not included?
2. What does David Kennedy say that Roosevelt would feel about proposals to "privatize" Social Security? |
Discussion Questions
1. What is the role of the judicial branch in crafting policy legislation?
2. How was Justice Brandeis effective in influencing the drafting of Social Security legislation? |
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| Views From 2005 |
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According to the Social Security Administration, Social Security is the most successful domestic government program. The social security system still continues today, as working individuals continue to pay social security tax, to maintain those who are retired or unable to work.
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James Roosevelt
Watch Clip
(01/28/05)
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Sen. Dorgan (D-ND)
Watch Clip
(01/18/05)
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Discussion Questions
1. Why was Social Security created,
according to
James Roosevelt?
2. What are Mr. Roosevelt's thoughts about
Social Security becoming an "investment
plan?" |
Discussion Questions
1. What does Sen. Dorgan say about why Social Security was set up?
2. What is the difference between an insurance program and an investment program? |
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