Happy Birthday Social Security!
Social Security celebrates 76 years of success this week
On August 14, 1935, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act into law. Roosevelt signed this historic act during a time in which more than half of our nation's older adult population was poor.
Now, 76 years later, fewer than 1 in 10 of our nation's older adults are living in poverty. With champions such as Roosevelt and Frances Perkins, Social Security has brought strength and honor to our nation's aging population.
Read the Most Significant Book on Social Security!
In Nancy Altman's all-
encompassing book, The Battle for Social Security: From FDR's Vision to Bush's Gamble, she explains that "Roosevelt's vision for Social Security as a 'sound and adequate protection against the vicissitudes of modern life,' has transformed society from a world of poorhouses and elderly parents living with adult children to an era of financial independence in old age. History reveals Social Security has survived prior assaults because it has always enjoyed the support of almost all Americans. Armed with the proper insight, Americans can win the current battle and ensure that this vital institution will continue to provide security to our children, grandchildren and all future generations."
Praise for The Battle for Social Security:
"Thorough and compelling, and engagingly written,
The Battle for Social Security is essential reading for anyone wondering whether our nation's most successful domestic program is sustainable in the twenty-first century. Altman delivers the knockout punch to private accounts and other proposals to radically reform Social Security, while showing the way to truly strengthen Social Security within the principles that have guided this vital institution since its inception."
-- John Rother, Director of Policy & Strategy, AARP
"I love Social Security like my mother's cookies--it embodies our best ideals for America. Now is the job of younger generations to carry the vision forward. That means knowing where Social Security came from. If you want a history with action, read The Battle for Social Security. I enthusiastically endorse it."
-- Hans Riemer, Washington Director, Rock the Vote
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