key term - WPA - Works Progress Administration

Definition

The Works Progress Administration (WPA) was a New Deal agency established in 1935 to provide jobs for millions of Americans during the Great Depression. It focused on large-scale public works projects, including the construction of roads, bridges, parks, and schools, and played a crucial role in improving infrastructure while also supporting the economy and providing relief to those in need.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The WPA employed over 8 million people between 1935 and 1943, making it one of the largest employment programs in U.S. history.
2. In Georgia, the WPA was responsible for significant improvements in infrastructure, including the construction of roads, bridges, and public buildings.
3. The WPA also funded art, music, and theater projects through its Federal Project Number One, which included initiatives like the Federal Writers' Project and the Federal Art Project.
4. The WPA's efforts significantly contributed to reducing unemployment rates during the Great Depression by providing jobs and stimulating economic activity.
5. Despite its successes, the WPA faced criticism for inefficiencies and was ultimately dissolved in 1943 as the country shifted focus to World War II.

Review Questions

• How did the WPA contribute to both job creation and infrastructure development in Georgia during the Great Depression?
  • The WPA was vital in Georgia by creating millions of jobs while simultaneously improving infrastructure across the state. It funded projects such as road construction, public buildings, and community facilities that not only provided employment but also enhanced living conditions. This dual focus helped stimulate Georgia's economy during a time of severe hardship.
• Evaluate the impact of WPA-funded cultural programs on Georgia's arts scene during its operation.
  • WPA-funded cultural programs had a profound impact on Georgia's arts scene by supporting local artists, musicians, and writers. Initiatives like the Federal Writers' Project documented local history and produced literature while the Federal Art Project showcased regional talent through murals and exhibitions. These efforts not only enriched Georgia's cultural heritage but also fostered a sense of community pride amid economic struggles.
• Assess the long-term implications of the WPA's infrastructure projects on Georgia's development after World War II.
  • The WPA's infrastructure projects laid a crucial foundation for Georgia's growth after World War II by enhancing transportation networks and public facilities. The roads and bridges built during this period facilitated trade and mobility, which became essential as the state experienced rapid urbanization and industrialization. This early investment in infrastructure not only improved economic prospects but also shaped urban planning and development patterns in subsequent decades.

Related terms

New Deal:

A series of programs and policies established by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in response to the Great Depression aimed at economic recovery and social reform.

Public Works Administration (PWA): A New Deal agency created to provide jobs through the construction of large-scale public works projects, similar to the WPA but focusing on fewer, larger projects.

Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC): A public work relief program that operated from 1933 to 1942, providing jobs for young men to work on environmental conservation projects like planting trees and building parks.