Social Policy: History (Colonial Times to 1900)
Social Policy: History (Colonial Times to 1900)
- Phyllis J. DayPhyllis J. DayIndependent Scholar, West Lafayette, IN
Summary
American social welfare began in the colonial period with the adoption of the Elizabethan Poor Laws as the basis for treatment of society's poor and deviant. By the beginning of the Progressive Era (1900), immigration, the Women's Movement, scientific investigation of social problems, and societal growth produced significant innovations in both public and private perceptions, programs, and treatment in such areas as poor relief, mental and physical health, and corrections, and led to the beginnings of professionalization of social work.
Keywords
Subjects
- Macro Practice
- Policy and Advocacy
- Poverty
- Social Justice and Human Rights
- Social Work Profession
