The GI Bill. It’s History, Iterations, and Economic Impact

Seminar paper from the year 2015 in the subject History - America, grade: 4.0, language: English, abstract: The Serviceman’s Readjustment Act, commonly known as the GI Bill, and its many iterations throughout American history sparked an economical and educational bounce that continues to affect the United States even today, some seventy years later. Given the success of this legislation, one would assume that it was wildly popular as it made its way through Congress; in fact, the GI Bill saw an uphill battle, fighting politicians, veteran’s organizations, and even government entities. Yet despite all this, with the hard work and determination of a dedicated group of individuals, the GI Bill would pass both Houses of Congress and be signed on the President’s desk in the Oval Office. Originally geared towards the returning veterans of World War II, the GI Bill would be expanded several times to include Korean veterans, Vietnam Veterans, and veterans who did not serve during times of conflict. Following the 9/11 attacks, the GI Bill was again revised with the passage of the Post 9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008 to enhance benefits and ensure aid offered to returning veterans was adequate to match the rising costs of attending college. In a day and age where veterans command one of the highest regards in American society, it is hard to conceive of a reason not to pass such legislation; indeed, one could almost think it completely logical to do anything possible to support the American serviceman: yet, this piece of legislation was born out of a time where American servicemen were not held in the same regard. Why was it necessary to pass this common sense legislation?