The Federal Aid Highway Act of 1956 fundamentally reshaped transportation in the United States through the establishment of the Interstate Highway System. Signed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, this landmark legislation addressed the growing need for better road infrastructure following World War II, when America experienced a surge in automobile ownership and suburban development. The act provided federal funding and established a framework for constructing a network of high-capacity highways designed for quicker travel, safety, and efficient freight transport.

The motivation behind the act was multifaceted, including national security concerns during the Cold War and the desire to bolster economic growth. Eisenhower, who had experienced the efficiency of the autobahn in Germany during the war, recognized the potential of a nationwide highway system to enhance mobility for both military and civilian purposes. The act authorized the allocation of $25 billion over 12 years to construct approximately 41,000 miles of interstate highways. This funding marked the beginning of a significant government investment in transportation infrastructure, aiming to connect cities and states more effectively.

As construction progressed, the Interstate Highway System not only transformed American transportation but also reshaped the social and economic landscape of the United States. It facilitated the expansion of suburban living, altered shopping patterns with the development of shopping centers, and supported the growth of the trucking industry. The system also revolutionized vacations and road trips, making travel more accessible and convenient for ordinary Americans. Over time, this network contributed to the phenomenon of urban sprawl, prompting cities to adapt to new vehicular traffic patterns and shaping the American lifestyle for decades to come.