On May 15, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed legislation to establish the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This significant event marked the birth of an organization that would go on to impact the lives of generations of Americans. In fact, in his final message to Congress, Lincoln referred to USDA as “The People’s Department,” recognizing its importance in serving the needs of the American people.
During this time, approximately half of all Americans lived on farms, highlighting the crucial role that agriculture played in the nation’s economy. However, as times have changed, the percentage of Americans living on farms has significantly decreased to just about 2 percent today.
Despite this shift, USDA’s mission remains as relevant as ever. Over the years, the department has expanded its focus beyond agriculture to include areas such as food, economic development, science, and natural resource conservation. Through its work on these diverse issues, USDA continues to fulfill Lincoln’s vision of touching the lives of every American, every day.
In 2012, USDA celebrated its 150th anniversary, marking a century and a half of service to the nation. This milestone serves as a testament to the enduring impact of an organization that was created with the goal of promoting the well-being of the American people.
Today, USDA remains committed to its mission of supporting farmers, ensuring food safety, promoting rural development, and conserving natural resources. As USDA continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the nation, its legacy as “The People’s Department” lives on.
So, when was USDA created? It was established on May 15, 1862, making it one of the oldest federal departments in the United States.
