Melanie Prescott Prescott 1
Mr.Sloan
History
Lyndon B. Johnson became America's 36th President of the United States on Nov 22nd 1963 following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. After completing Kennedy's term, he then got elected in his own right, winning by a large margin. Johnston came into power at a very crucial time of social reform in America. The Civil Rights Movement had become extremely popular and effective, as well as many other similar incremental reforms. As Johnson led more troops into the Vietnam War, protestors and activists became more radical and participated in anti-war protests. Lyndon B. Johnson modified Kennedy's idea of the 'Great Society' and used it as his ambitious vision for America, focusing on poverty, healthcare, and upholding civil rights laws. Johnson pushed through Congress some of Americas most progressive and important legislations, and led America through an eventful time in history.
President Lyndon B.
Johnson wished to expand former President John. F. Kennedy's vision of social and economic growth in America by combating the 'War On Poverty' in America. The War On Poverty was created due to the concern that America was not doing enough to provide opportunities to the lower-class. His goal was to diminish the principal causes of poverty such as lack of education, and lack of job opportunities. In 1964 the national poverty
rate in America was around 19%. In President Johnsons State of the Union Address he expressed his plan against poverty saying "This administration today here and now declares unconditional war on poverty in Americaâ¦Poverty is a national problem, requiring improved national organization and support. But this attack, to be effective, must also be organized at the State and local level." In 1964, Johnson had the Economic Opportunity Act passed through Congress. The Economic Opportunity Act allowed...