Public expenditure programs derive from public demand. Over the history of the United States, we may see several examples of national expenditures to improve the human capital of the nation, in such realms as education, health care, poverty, and housing. Investing in human capital is a broad concept referring to improving people by making them healthier, more educated, or less economically insecure so that they may be productive contributors to society. Examples are Social Security, the GI Bill, Medicare/Medicaid, Federal Student Loans and Subsidies, the War on Poverty, and many more.

Give an example and discuss what you believe to be the most effective of these federal programs, from a historical perspective. Be as specific as possible.