Johnson

Question 1

What did Johnson achieve in terms of civil rights?

Answer 1

Far more than Kennedy…

• CIVIL RIGHTS ACT of 1964 - banned racial discrimination in public places and employment
• VOTING RIGHTS ACT of 1965 - appointed agents to ensure that voting procedures were carried out properly
• 1967 - declared interracial marriage

Question 2

What did Johnson achieve in terms of economic reform?

Answer 2

• CUT TAXES - which would increase public spending, promote growth of businesses and create more jobs
• OFFICE OF ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY - to help the poor in cities - funded education and community programmes

Question 3

What 4 things did Johnson achieve in terms of social reform?

Answer 3

• THE MEDICAL CARE ACT - Medicare for the old and Medicaid for the poor
• ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION ACT - first ever major federal support for education
• THE MODEL CITIES ACT - urban renewal
• MINIMUM WAGE increased to $1.40

Question 4

What were the major successes of Johnson’s presidency?

Answer 4

• 25 million were given access to decent healthcare for the first time
• Number of citizens living below the poverty line fell by 50%
• Most importantly, he had greatly extended the role of the federal government, especially with regards to poverty

Question 5

What were the major downfalls of Johnsons presidency?

Answer 5

• Accused of undermining American valued of rugged individualism
• Vietnam consumed most of his money and attention - he could have achieved more
• Outbreak of city violence in the 60s