Friday, June 12, 2026

250 to 250: 15. Social Security Act, Narrated by Jan John


Heather Cox Richardson and 250 to 250: Social Security Act, Narrated by Jan John

Jan John is a retired sales executive, active volunteer in local Maine politics, Social Security beneficiary, and dog lover. Jan John reveals how pioneering Labor Secretary Frances Perkins fought to create Social Security benefits during the Great Depression. 

During the Great Depression, many banks and businesses closed.
  • Many people lost their jobs and savings.
  • Frances Perkins wanted to help workers and families.
  • She worked with Franklin D. Roosevelt.
  • The law provided money for older people after retirement.
  • It also helped widows, orphans, and unemployed workers.
  • Workers helped pay for these benefits through payroll taxes.
  • Social Security became an important safety net for Americans.
  • Millions of people have received help from Social Security.
  • Later, Dwight D. Eisenhower said Social Security was very important to the country.
Social Security remains an important program in the United States today.


POP Interview and Civics Quiz:
  • N-400 Part 2:02a. Do you want the Social Security Administration (SSA) to issue you an original or replacement Social Security card and update your immigration status with the SSA if and when you are naturalized?
  • USCIS 100:80. Who was President during the Great Depression and World War II?
  • USCIS 128:71. Why is it important to pay federal taxes?

Family Fun:

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