The Works Progress Administration (WPA)

The Works Progress Administration (WPA) was a U.S. government program established in 1935 during the Great Depression. Its primary goal was to provide jobs for millions of unemployed Americans by funding public projects. Workers built roads, bridges, schools, and parks, improving infrastructure while boosting the economy. The WPA also supported arts and culture, employing artists, writers, and musicians. By 1943, the program had created millions of jobs and contributed significantly to the nation’s recovery from economic hardship, showcasing the government's role in addressing unemployment and supporting public welfare during a challenging period.