creating the Great Society
The Great Society was President Johnson's domestic plan for the United States to increase opportunity for all through improvements in civil rights, education, healthcare, immigration, the environment, transportation, safety, housing, the arts, and fighting poverty.
Civil Rights
The three major civil rights bills passed during President Johnson's administration were the most sweeping reforms since Reconstruction.
Education
The Johnson administration passed over 60 education laws giving federal government funding for public schools and aid to college students.
Immigration
The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 sought to end discriminatory immigration policies in the United States.
Environment
The Johnson administration passed over 300 bills to protect America's natural environment and heritage.
WAR ON POVERTY
In his first State of the Union address, President Johnson declared “unconditional war on poverty.” His policies helped cut the number of Americans living in poverty from 20 percent to 12 percent.
Healthcare
President Johnson viewed healthcare as essential. During his administration, there were 40 health measures passed including Medicare and Medicaid.
THINK about the Goals of the great society
Which Great Society programs do you think were the most important to improve life in the 1960s?
Which Great Society programs continue to impact your life today?
If you were to update one of the Great Society programs to create more opportunity today, which would you choose? How would you update the program to help people today?
