Origins and Objectives of USAID

USAID was established in 1961 under President John Kennedy, aimed at supporting development efforts, particularly in the Global South, with an emphasis on Latin America. The agency sought to promote political stability and economic growth as a means to counter the influence of communism during the Cold War. Although presented as an independent agency, its charter mandated that its activities align closely with American foreign policy objectives. Consequently, USAID was tasked with distributing aid to fulfill these goals, often collaborating with NGOs and private organizations to implement projects ostensibly aimed at infrastructure and health improvements.