Abstract:

Starting from the set-up of a welfare system for Civil War veterans and dependents, the US federal government has gradually got involved in the social security system, which before was the responsibility of private charity organizations and local government. The social security system was improved in the 1960s. Its development and improvement has taken in many aspects of civil rights, expanding with political rights to economic and social rights. The act has strengthened the public’s identification with federal government, expanding the federal government's political power and enhancing the government’s capability to generate revenues and improve its administration management. The process has reaffirmed the contract between citizens and government, reshaped the relationship between states and federal government and quickened the federal government’s penetration on economic and social affairs. The establishment and development of the US social security system reflects the establishment and development of a modern country, as social welfare is a significant part of a modern nation.