The Evolution of U.S.A Welfare Policy Influenced by Individualism

Influenced by the Poor Act and individualism,American social policy emphasized the responsibility of individuals and local governments in the early stage.In accordance with specific conditions,American charities experienced a rapidly developing period.With a change of American ideas during the Great Depression in 1920s～1930s,the USA issued the first comprehensive welfare act——Social Security Act in the world.After the war against poverty in 1950s～1960s and under the ideological influences by individualism and conservatism,the USA changed into "the Reluctant Welfare State" which is characterized by lower welfare level,perfect social assistance system and developed charities.