HISET Social Studies Practice

What was the purpose of the Economic Opportunity Act?

1. To increase national defense funding

2. To provide funds for workplace regulations

3. To support youth programs and job training

4. To establish minimum wage standards

The correct answer is: To support youth programs and job training

The Economic Opportunity Act, enacted in 1964 as a cornerstone of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty, aimed to address the root causes of poverty through various means, including support for youth programs and job training. One of the key components of the act was the establishment of organizations like the Job Corps, which provided education and vocational training to young people, and Community Action Agencies, which aimed to empower local communities to fight poverty. By prioritizing job training and educational opportunities, the Economic Opportunity Act sought to equip individuals with the skills needed to gain employment, thus reducing poverty levels and promoting economic self-sufficiency. This focus on empowering youth is critical because it not only helps young people secure jobs but also contributes to broader economic growth by creating a more skilled workforce. In contrast, the other choices do not align with the primary objectives of the Economic Opportunity Act. While national defense and workplace regulations are significant issues, they were not the focus of this legislation. Furthermore, establishing minimum wage standards involved different legislative efforts. The act distinctly aimed at enhancing opportunities for those in poverty, making the option related to youth programs and job training the correct choice.