The Civil Works Administration (CWA) was launched by President Franklin D. Roosevelt amidst the struggles of the Great Depression, when unemployment rates in the United States soared to unprecedented levels. The CWA was part of Roosevelt's broader New Deal initiatives aimed at economic recovery and relief for Americans suffering from economic hardship. It was designed not just to provide temporary jobs but also to help rebuild and improve the nation's infrastructure. The emphasis on public works helped meet both the immediate need for employment and the longer-term needs for public improvements.

The CWA employed workers in a variety of projects, including the construction of roads, schools, parks, and other public facilities. It focused on swift job creation, engaging millions in meaningful work. Local and state governments collaborated with federal authorities to identify projects and manage their implementation. The program was particularly notable for its ambition and scale, providing over 4 million jobs and spending more than $200 million within a few months of its inception. The administration sought to create a sense of dignity for the workers, emphasizing the importance of public service.

Despite some criticisms regarding inefficiencies and the costs involved, the CWA played a crucial role in the immediate relief effort during one of the darkest economic periods in U.S. history. It set the stage for future employment programs and demonstrated the government's ability to step in and provide jobs in times of crisis. The successes and failures of the CWA provided valuable lessons for subsequent initiatives aimed at job creation and infrastructure improvement, reinforcing the importance of federal intervention in the economy.