Origins of Social Security

The Great Depression created widespread unemployment and business failures, leaving families financially vulnerable. To address this, the Social Security Act of 1935 was enacted to provide support during unemployment, workplace injuries, and retirement. These payments helped sustain the economy by allowing unemployed or injured workers to continue purchasing goods and services, which kept demand alive. The Act also aimed to ensure employees and their families could meet daily needs, afford medical treatment, and eventually retire with some financial security.