"The Encyclopedia of Social Welfare History in North Amercia" is a unique reference book that will provide users with basic information about the history of social welfare in North America, including Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Since many themes and issues are similar in the three nations, entries will provide comparative information about common as well as distinctive concerns and developments. Significant events, influential persons, legislation, social problems, and societal responses are described in detail. Editors include specialists in the social welfare history of each nation, and they have collaborated with scholars from a variety of academic disciplines to prepare entries of varying length addressing these issues. Included in each entry are suggestions for further reading that will guide readers to the rich resources available for learning about the history of North American social welfare.The encyclopedia also provides cross-references for important topics. This volume will be a unique reference tool for students at all levels, for teachers, and for libraries serving anyone with an interest in the history of North American social welfare. This title covers topics such as: Canada; Charity; Child welfare; Economic conditions and social welfare; Economics/tax policy; Health/Mental Health Policy; Landmark social welfare legislation; Mexico; Poverty; Race and social inequality; Social problems; Social security and income maintenance; Social welfare reform; Social welfare reformers; Social work; United States; and, Women and social welfare.