The Works Progress Administration (WPA) was established in 1935 as a key component of U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal, aimed at mitigating the effects of the Great Depression. It sought to provide economic relief by employing millions of Americans in public works projects, including building and repairing infrastructure such as buildings, parks, and highways. The WPA also supported unemployed artists, musicians, writers, and actors, enriching communities culturally and contributing significantly to the nation's development.