Rural Electrification Administration

The Rural Electrification Administration (REA) was a U.S. government agency established in 1935 to provide electricity to rural areas that lacked electrical infrastructure. Recognizing the significant gap between urban and rural access to power, the REA offered loans and technical assistance to electric cooperatives and utilities. This initiative aimed to improve living standards, enhance agricultural productivity, and boost economic development in rural communities. The organization's efforts led to the widespread electrification of rural America, fundamentally transforming daily life and enabling modern conveniences in these areas. The REA is now part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.