Johnson’s Great Society

• Johnson’s Great Society

  Lyndon B Johnson was the new President following the assassination of JFK. LBJ continued to develop JFK‟s ideas. Johnson wanted to create a Great Society. He won the 1964 election by stating that he wanted to end poverty. He carried on the work promised by JFK. Johnson was a much more experienced politician than Kennedy and could pass more laws.
• Johnson faced opposition


  Johnson faced opposition during the latter stages of his Presidency. He was criticised for America’s involvement in the Vietnam War – some thought it was costing the USA too much money and students protested against the draft system (conscription). In 1968 Johnson decided not to run for re-election and Nixon became the next President of the USA.
• What significant legislation was passed in 1964 as part of the Civil Rights movement?

  The Civil Rights Act of 1964
• What did the Civil Rights Act of 1964 achieve?

  It ended segregation in public places and banned employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
• Who first proposed the Civil Rights Act of 1964?

  President John F. Kennedy
• How did the Civil Rights Act of 1964 overcome opposition?


  It survived strong opposition from southern members of Congress before being signed into law by LBJ.
• What economic policy did JFK implement to stimulate spending?

  He cut taxes.
• What was the purpose of the $900 million JFK made available to businesses?

  To create new jobs and provide grants for high-tech equipment and worker training.
• What action did JFK take regarding government spending on the armed forces?

  He increased government spending on the armed forces.
• What was the purpose of the Medical Care Act of 1965?

  To provide Medicare for the elderly and Medicaid for the poor, ensuring access to medical care for all Americans.
• What was the minimum wage increase initiated by Johnson?

  From $1.25 to $1.40.
• What was the goal of the Office of Economic Opportunity created by the Economic Opportunity Act in 1964?

  To attack the roots of American poverty.
• What initiative provided funding to improve education for the poor in cities?

  Operation Headstart.
• What did the Elementary and Secondary Education Act provide?

  Major funding for schools.
• What were the main successes of the Great Society programs?

  • Civil Rights: Civil Rights Act of 1964
  • Economic policies: Tax cuts, job creation, and increased military spending
  • Healthcare: Medicare and Medicaid through the Medical Care Act of 1965
  • Education: Operation Headstart and Elementary and Secondary Education Act
• What significant events occurred in Harlem and Watts in 1964 and 1965?

  African-Americans rioted after men were shot by police officers
• How did President Johnson react to the riots in Harlem and Watts?

  The riots disheartened Johnson
• What major event in 1968 led to more urban unrest during Johnson's presidency?

  The assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.
• What was one of the main economic issues faced by the Great Society programs?

  Programs were costly to run and increased national debt
• Which two programs took the largest part of the budget during the Great Society era?

  Social Security and Medicare
• What was the state of unemployment and poverty by 1968?

  Unemployment was on the increase and there was widespread rioting in poorer areas
• What was one of the main legacies of the "war on poverty" by 1968?

  An increased cynicism about what the government can achieve