Which US President declared a "War on Poverty" in 1964? Answer

General
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Which US President declared a “War on Poverty” in 1964? Answer

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Which U.S. President declared a “War on Poverty” in 1964?

Answer: The U.S. President who declared a “War on Poverty” in 1964 was Lyndon B. Johnson.

Detailed Explanation:

  1. Background Context:

    • Lyndon B. Johnson became the 36th President of the United States following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in November 1963. He was subsequently elected to a full term in 1964.

  2. Announcing the “War on Poverty”:

    • In his State of the Union Address on January 8, 1964, President Johnson declared an “unconditional war on poverty in America.” This initiative was part of his broader vision known as the “Great Society,” which aimed to eliminate poverty and racial injustice.

  3. Legislative Actions and Impact:

    • Following the declaration, several significant pieces of legislation were enacted to support the “War on Poverty”:
      • Economic Opportunity Act of 1964: This act created various social programs to promote education, employment, and health services, including the creation of Community Action Agencies, Job Corps, and Head Start.
      • Medicaid and Medicare: Signed into law in 1965, these programs greatly expanded healthcare access for the poor and elderly, profoundly reducing poverty-related health issues.
      • Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) of 1965: This act aimed to reduce educational inequality by providing federal funding to schools serving low-income students.

  4. Evaluation of Success:

    • The “War on Poverty” had mixed successes and faced criticisms. While it did not completely eradicate poverty, it brought significant improvements. The programs launched under Johnson’s administration helped millions of Americans achieve better living standards and laid the groundwork for future social welfare policies.

Final Answer: The U.S. President who declared a “War on Poverty” in 1964 was Lyndon B. Johnson.