What did the Social Security Act of 1935 establish?

The Social Security Act of 1935 established a government program aimed at providing financial assistance to individuals in retirement as well as those who are unemployed. This landmark piece of legislation was designed to address the economic hardships faced by many Americans during the Great Depression by offering a safety net through benefits funded by payroll taxes. It created a structured system for retirement pensions for the elderly, and it also included provisions for unemployment insurance to offer temporary financial relief to those who had lost their jobs. This was a significant step in the development of the American welfare state and marked the beginning of the federal government playing a direct role in the economic security of its citizens.

The other options do not align with the provisions established by the Social Security Act. The act did not provide funding for education, establish a nationwide healthcare system, or create federal minimum wage laws, which were addressed by other legislation at different times in history.