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Social Security History

SSA has discontinued the History Program, and we can no longer provide responses to informational requests.

Ancient Stone Carving

Historical Development of Economic Insurance

A detailed history of social insurance programs from ancient times to today.

Key Dates Calendar image

Historical Chronology - Key Dates & Events

Image of Social Security Act

Chronological History of Social Security Related Legislation


Program History

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FDR and the singing pen

Text of the 1935 Social Security Act

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Legislative papers and book

Legislative Histories

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Social Security Cards

Social Security Number History

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Greenspan Commission

Important Reports & Studies

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Photo montage

Early Speeches & Articles

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Thomas Paine and Agrarian Justice

Key Early Documents

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Social Security pioneers montage

Social Security Pioneers

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65th anniversary logo

Historical Anniversaries

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Oasis magazines

History Articles From OASIS Magazine

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Agency History

Agency photo montage

Organizational History

Commissioners of SSA

Social Security Board Members

Cabinet Officials

Administrative History of SSA 1963-1968

Administrative History of SSA 1993-2000

History of SSA's International Operations

Miscellaneous Agency-Related Topics

History of the Historian's Office

History of Social Security's Website

The Archives

  • Social Security Related Archives

Films & Documentaries

  • In The Field
  • Oklahoma City: A Survivor's Story

Photographs & Posters

  • Photo Gallery
  • Sample Public Information Materials
  • History of Social Security Buildings

Special Collections

  • LBJ Tapes
  • Nixon Tapes
  • Oral Histories
  • This Month In History

The Historian's Office

  • SSA Historian's Office

Miscellaneous

  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Related Sites