The U.S. established the Social Security Act in 1935. This landmark piece of legislation was a response to the economic hardships faced during the Great Depression and sought to provide a safety net for vulnerable populations. The Social Security Act created a system of old-age benefits for workers, unemployment insurance, and welfare payments to needy families. It marked a significant shift in government policy, as it set the precedent for federal responsibility in providing economic security. Over the years, the program has expanded and evolved, becoming a cornerstone of the American social safety net and influencing numerous social policies worldwide.