On May 13th, 1862, a significant development in American history took place with the establishment of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) by the United States Congress. This pivotal moment marked a recognition of the essential role that agriculture played in the nation’s prosperity and stability. President Abraham Lincoln, who signed the act into law, famously referred to the USDA as the “People’s Department,” highlighting its fundamental connection to the everyday lives of Americans.
The creation of the USDA was not just an administrative action but a transformative event that underscored the government's commitment to supporting the farming community. At the time, over half of the American population was engaged in agriculture, and there was a pressing need to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability. The USDA's mission was to provide leadership on food, agriculture, natural resources, and related issues based on sound public policy and science. From its early focus on collecting agricultural statistics and ensuring the quality of seeds, the department has grown into a diverse entity that today oversees programs ranging from food safety, to rural development, to conservation. This foundation laid in 1862 continues to support and shape the agricultural landscape of the United States, demonstrating the enduring importance of farming to the nation's well-being and success.
