Reagan administration’s policies toward food stamps, formally known as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), sparked controversy and debate. During Reagan’s presidency, the Food Security Act of 1985 and subsequent changes implemented significant revisions to the SNAP program, which aims to provide nutritional assistance to low-income individuals and families. These revisions had a profound impact on the program’s eligibility criteria, benefit levels, and overall funding.
President Reagan’s Role in the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981
The Original Budget Buster
Picture this: it’s the early 1980s, and America is facing an economic crisis that’d make your head spin. Unemployment is soaring, inflation is out of control, and the national debt is ballooning. Enter: President Ronald Reagan, the original budget-bustin’ cowboy.
Reagan had a plan to fix this mess, and it involved a little something he called the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981. It was a huge, sweeping piece of legislation that aimed to cut government spending and balance the budget. And guess what? It was a total game-changer.
Reagan’s Ax and the Food Chain
One of the areas that Reagan’s budget axe swung hard at was food and nutrition assistance programs. The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act slashed funding for these programs, making it harder for struggling Americans to put food on their tables.
Programs like the Food Stamp Program (now known as SNAP) and the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program were hit particularly hard. Eligibility requirements were tightened, benefit levels were reduced, and funding was cut.
The Fallout
The cuts had a ripple effect on the entire food assistance system. The number of people receiving food stamps dropped by millions, and those who remained saw their benefits decrease. Food banks and other charitable organizations were overwhelmed as demand for food assistance skyrocketed.
The Debate Rages On
To this day, the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 remains a hot topic of debate. Proponents argue that it helped control government spending and reduce the national debt. Opponents, on the other hand, point to the devastating impact it had on vulnerable Americans and argue that it undermined the social safety net.
Reagan’s Legacy
Love him or hate him, there’s no denying that President Reagan’s Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 was a watershed moment in American history. It reshaped government spending, impacted food assistance for millions, and continues to spark fierce debates today.
The USDA and the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981: A Tale of Two Agencies
Picture this: It’s 1981, and the Reagan administration is on a mission to reduce government spending and tackle the budget deficit. Enter the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA), a hefty piece of legislation that had far-reaching effects on food and nutrition assistance programs in the United States.
Now, let’s bring in two key players in this story: the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). These agencies were tasked with the unenviable job of administering the changes mandated by OBRA.
The USDA, led by Secretary John Block, was responsible for overseeing the overall implementation of OBRA’s provisions. Meanwhile, the FNS, a USDA sub-agency, had the hands-on task of managing specific food assistance programs. Agencies like these are like the unsung heroes behind the scenes, making sure that food gets to those who need it most.
With OBRA, the USDA and FNS had their work cut out for them. The Act brought significant changes to eligibility criteria, benefit levels, and other aspects of food assistance programs. They had to adjust their operations and procedures to ensure that these changes were implemented smoothly.
But here’s the kicker: OBRA didn’t just shake things up for the USDA and FNS; it also sparked heated debates and controversies. Critics argued that the cuts and changes would harm low-income families and undermine the effectiveness of food assistance programs. Proponents countered that these measures were necessary to balance the budget and promote self-sufficiency.
The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act: Congress’s Role in Shaping Food Assistance
Picture this: it’s the early 1980s, and the United States is facing a budget crisis. In a bid to reduce government spending, Congress sets its sights on slashing assistance programs. Enter the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981, a monumental piece of legislation that would reshape food assistance in America forever.
Congress Takes Center Stage
As the Act took shape, Congress played a pivotal role. Led by Republican lawmakers, the Congress aimed to rein in federal spending. One of their targets was food and nutrition assistance programs, which they viewed as contributing to the budget deficit.
After intense debates and compromises, Congress passed the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, which included sweeping changes to food assistance. They reduced eligibility criteria, cut benefit levels, and tightened program administration.
The Act’s impact was immediate and far-reaching. The number of people receiving assistance plummeted, while the amount of benefits provided dwindled. These changes had a profound impact on the lives of low-income Americans, especially those struggling with hunger and poverty.
Describe the research and analysis conducted by the American Public Health Association and the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities on the Act’s impact on health and nutrition.
The Impact of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 on Health and Nutrition: A Look at the Research
The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981, a hefty piece of legislation, had a significant impact on food and nutrition assistance programs in the United States. But what about its effects on health and nutrition? Let’s dive into the research!
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American Public Health Association (APHA): These health experts dug deep into the data and found that the Act had a negative impact on the health and nutritional status of low-income Americans. They specifically pointed to cuts in food stamps (now known as SNAP) and other programs leading to increased food insecurity, hunger, and health problems.
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Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP): These budget whizzes crunched the numbers and reported that the Act led to a decline in food stamp participation, with several million eligible households losing benefits. This had a ripple effect, contributing to higher rates of food insecurity and associated health issues.
The bottom line: Both the APHA and CBPP studies paint a clear picture: the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 had a detrimental impact on the health and nutrition of low-income Americans. It’s a reminder that decisions about food assistance programs have real-world consequences for people’s well-being.
Specific Provisions of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981: Reshaping Food and Nutrition Assistance
The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981, like a big, complicated recipe, had a whole bunch of ingredients that changed the food assistance landscape in America. Let’s dive into the specifics:
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Eligibility shake-up: The Act tightened the rules for who could get food stamps, making it tougher for some folks to qualify.
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Benefit reductions: Just like a diet, the Act cut back on food stamp benefits. People got less money to spend on groceries.
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Program consolidation: The Act combined a bunch of different food programs into one big umbrella program under the flashy name of “Temporary Assistance for Needy Families” (TANF).
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Work requirements: The Act said that people who get food assistance had to work or do job training. No more just lounging on the couch and eating Cheetos!
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Time limits: The Act put a clock on how long people could get food assistance. It was like a food assistance race against time!
These provisions were like a storm that swept through the food assistance world, leaving a trail of changes in its wake. Let’s explore the impact of these changes in our next section.
Specific Provisions and Impacts: Reshaping Food and Nutrition Assistance
The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 was a game-changer for food and nutrition assistance programs in the US, introducing significant shifts that reshaped the landscape. Buckle up as we dive into the nitty-gritty of eligibility criteria, benefit levels, and other changes that shook the system.
Eligibility Tightening: A Narrower Net
The Act’s architects tightened the eligibility screws, making it harder for folks to qualify for assistance. Income limits dropped, and asset tests became stricter. It was like someone drew a smaller circle around those who could get help. This led to a drop in the number of people receiving benefits, as many fell through the cracks.
Benefit Levels: A Budgetary Squeeze
But it didn’t stop there. The Act also cut the size of the benefits that folks received. Food stamps, now known as SNAP, saw their value diminish, reducing the purchasing power of those who relied on them. It was like giving people a smaller bag of groceries to feed their families.
Other Program Tweaks: A Mixed Bag
Beyond these major changes, the Act made other tweaks to the system. Some programs were expanded, like the Commodity Distribution Program, while others faced cuts or consolidations. It was like a jigsaw puzzle where some pieces fit better than others.
The result of these changes was a significant impact on the overall effectiveness of these programs. The number of people receiving assistance decreased, and the benefits they received were smaller. The safety net that had been in place to help those in need had been weakened.
The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981: A Tale of Cuts and Consequences
Back in the 80s, President Ronald Reagan, like a mischievous kid with a pair of scissors, snipped away at food assistance programs with the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981. It was like a giant game of “Operation,” but instead of tweezers, Uncle Sam used a meat cleaver.
The USDA and FNS, the folks in charge of feeding hungry Americans, were left scratching their heads. They had to figure out how to do more with less, like magicians pulling rabbits out of empty hats.
One of the biggest changes was making it harder for people to qualify for food assistance. Like a picky bouncer at a nightclub, they tightened the rules, leaving many in need standing outside the gates.
Benefit levels also got the chop. Recipients found themselves with less money to put food on the table. Imagine a family of hungry hippos trying to survive on a single carrot.
But wait, there’s more! Funding for programs like WIC and food stamps was slashed. It was like removing the life rafts from a sinking ship and expecting people to swim to safety.
So, what were the consequences of these cuts? Well, the number of people receiving assistance plummeted, and the amount of benefits they received shrunk. It was like a domino effect, with each cut leading to a ripple of hunger and hardship.
The overall effectiveness of the programs took a nosedive. Suddenly, they were like rusty old cars, struggling to provide adequate nutrition to the families who needed it most.
And to top it off, these changes sparked a fiery debate that still rages on today. Proponents argue that the cuts were necessary to balance the budget, while opponents claim that they left countless Americans vulnerable to hunger.
The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 was a pivotal moment in the history of food assistance in the United States. Its legacy continues to shape the lives of millions of Americans who rely on these programs to feed their families. It’s a story that reminds us that even the most calculated budget decisions can have far-reaching consequences, especially when they’re made at the expense of the most vulnerable among us.
Controversies and Debates Surrounding the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981
Let’s dive into the juicy controversies and debates that have been swirling around the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 like a hurricane in a blender!
Pros and Cons Galore
Like any good piece of legislation, the Act had its fair share of supporters and detractors. Proponents argued that it would streamline government spending, reduce the national debt, and make food assistance programs more efficient. Opponents, on the other hand, claimed it would hurt the poor, increase hunger, and undermine the very foundation of our nutritional safety net.
The Great Eligibility Debate
One of the most contentious points was the Act’s changes to eligibility criteria for food assistance programs. Critics argued that these changes would unfairly restrict access to benefits for those who genuinely needed them. Proponents, however, countered that the new requirements would ensure that only the most deserving received assistance.
The Impact on Nutrition
Another major concern was the Act’s potential impact on nutrition. Critics pointed to research suggesting that reduced benefits and changes in program design could lead to decreased food security and higher rates of malnutrition. Proponents, however, argued that the Act’s focus on efficiency would actually result in better use of available resources, ultimately improving nutritional outcomes.
The Ongoing Legacy
These debates have continued to simmer over the years, with no clear consensus emerging. The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 remains a polarizing piece of legislation, leaving a lasting legacy of controversy and debate around food assistance programs in the United States.
The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act: A Tale of Two Sides
In the realm of government shenanigans, the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 stands as a prime example of “divide and conquer.” This act, lovingly referred to as OBRA 1981, had the unfortunate side effect of dividing folks into two camps: proponents and opponents.
Proponents, like the Kool-Aid Man, busted through walls with claims of “fiscal responsibility.” They argued that OBRA 1981 would “balance the budget by cutting unnecessary spending” on frivolous things like food assistance. According to them, the poor and hungry were simply “lazy moochers” who needed a good, old-fashioned kick in the pants.
On the other side of the fence, opponents stood tall, waving banners of “humanitarian aid” and “the greater good.” They painted a bleak picture of “families struggling to put food on the table” and “children going to bed hungry.” They believed that OBRA 1981 would only worsen the plight of the most vulnerable in society.
The debate raged on, with each side armed with their “facts” and “statistics.” But as with any great battle, the truth often lies somewhere in the middle. OBRA 1981 did indeed cut spending on food assistance programs, the effects of which are still being debated today.
Analyze the reasons for the ongoing discussions and debates about the Act’s impact.
The Ongoing Saga of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981
Remember that one aunt at family reunions who always starts a debate about politics? Well, the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 is kind of like that aunt, except its debates are more about food stamps and less about who’s a better president.
This law, signed by the beloved but also controversial Ronald Reagan, has been a hot topic since its inception. It’s like the cilantro of legislation: some folks love it, while others can’t stand the stuff.
Why all the fuss? Because it’s a law that’s shaped how our government helps people put food on their tables. Key players like the USDA and the Food and Nutrition Service have been tasked with handling the changes.
The Biggest Beefs
The Act sparked some serious disputes. One of the big ones? Changes to eligibility criteria. Let’s say you used to qualify for food stamps because you were a starving college student. Well, sorry, amigo. The Act may have just made it harder for you to get those much-needed stamps.
Another issue? Benefit levels. The government basically said, “We’re cutting back on the amount of food stamps you get.” This left many people scratching their heads, wondering how they were supposed to feed their families with less money.
The Reasons for the Ruckus
Here’s why people keep arguing about this law. First, food is a big deal. We all need to eat, and when the government makes it harder for people to get help getting food, it gets people riled up.
Second, the Act’s effects have been long-lasting. The changes it made continue to shape food assistance programs today. So, it’s not just a matter of a law that was passed and forgotten; its impact is still being felt.
Third, the Act didn’t just affect poor people. It affected everyone. By cutting back on food stamps, the government put a strain on food banks and other charitable organizations that help feed the hungry.
The Lesson We Can Learn
So, what’s the moral of the story? Well, when it comes to something as fundamental as food assistance, it’s important to have a law that’s fair, effective, and doesn’t leave people hungry. The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 is a reminder that these discussions are ongoing and that we should always be striving to make sure everyone has enough to eat.
The Enduring Impact of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 on Food and Nutrition Assistance
Picture this: it’s 1981, and the United States is in the midst of an economic crisis. President Ronald Reagan, a staunch believer in slashing government spending, signs the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act into law. This Act made major changes to food and nutrition assistance programs, and its effects are still felt today.
One of the most significant long-term impacts of the Act was the transformation of the food stamp program. Before 1981, food stamps were distributed primarily through government-run offices. The Act created a new system of distributing food stamps through authorized retailers, which made it easier for people to access food assistance.
Another long-term effect of the Act was the introduction of work requirements. For the first time, certain able-bodied adults without dependents were required to work in order to receive food stamps. This requirement was designed to encourage people to become self-sufficient, but it also created new barriers to accessing food assistance for some people.
Over the years, the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act has been the subject of much controversy and debate. Critics argue that the Act has made it harder for people to access food assistance, while supporters contend that it has helped to reduce government spending and promote self-sufficiency.
Regardless of one’s opinion on the Act, there is no doubt that it has had a profound impact on food and nutrition assistance in the United States. Its provisions and impacts continue to shape the development and implementation of these programs today, and its legacy will likely be debated for years to come.
The Omnibus Act: Shaping Food Assistance for Decades
The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981, like a budget-savvy superhero, swooped in to change the world of food assistance. It’s like the blueprint for how we’ve been fighting hunger ever since.
Now, let’s fast-forward to the present. The Act’s legacy is still shaping the way we feed those in need. For better or worse, it left its mark on eligibility criteria, benefit levels, and even the way programs are run.
For example, the Act made it tougher for people to qualify for food stamps (now known as SNAP). It also lowered the value of benefits for those who did qualify. But here’s the sneaky part: it also gave states more flexibility to run their own programs.
Fast-forward a couple decades, and the Act’s impact is still being debated. Some say it’s made the system more efficient and cost-effective. Others argue it’s left more people hungry.
The Act’s long-lasting effects are like a complex recipe we’re still trying to perfect. It’s a mix of ingredients that’s fed our nation for decades, but it’s also left some with empty plates. As we continue to stir the pot, understanding the Act’s complicated legacy is key to finding a recipe for success that nourishes everyone.
The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981: A Historical Perspective and Its Impact on Food and Nutrition Assistance
The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 was like a giant puzzle with far-reaching consequences for food and nutrition assistance in the United States. It was a game-changer, shaping the way we help those in need.
Over the years, the Act’s provisions have sparked heated debates. Some saw it as a lifeline, while others viewed it as a cruel cut. But one thing’s for sure: its impact has been felt by millions of Americans.
Changes, Changes Everywhere
The Act brought about significant changes to food assistance programs. Eligibility criteria were tightened, benefits were reduced, and funding was slashed. As a result, the number of people receiving assistance dwindled, and the amount of benefits provided was less.
But the effects went beyond numbers. Families had to make difficult choices, often sacrificing nutritious meals to make ends meet. The Act’s impact on health and nutrition was a major concern, with studies showing an increase in food insecurity and hunger.
Controversy and Debate: A never-ending saga
The Act has been the subject of heated controversies and debates. Proponents argue it promoted fiscal responsibility and reduced government spending. They claim it encouraged self-sufficiency and reduced dependency on welfare.
On the other hand, opponents criticize the Act for its harsh consequences on vulnerable populations. They argue it increased poverty and hunger, especially among children, the elderly, and the disabled.
Looking Ahead: A glimpse into the future
The Act’s legacy is still being debated today. Its provisions and impacts continue to shape the development and implementation of food and nutrition assistance programs. The potential implications for the future are significant.
Will we see a return to more comprehensive food assistance programs?
Will the debate between fiscal responsibility and social welfare continue to divide policymakers?
How will the Act’s impact on health and nutrition be addressed in the years to come?
The answers to these questions will determine the future of food and nutrition assistance in the United States. As we move forward, it’s crucial to remember the lessons learned from the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981. By understanding its history, we can work towards a future where everyone has access to the food they need to thrive.
The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981: A Deep Dive into Food Assistance and Controversies
Introduction
Get ready for a bumpy ride through the world of food assistance and political debates! In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 (OBRA 1981), a law that has left a lasting mark on how the U.S. government supports those in need of food.
Key Players and Genesis
The story begins with President Ronald Reagan, who put pen to paper and signed OBRA 1981 into law. But he wasn’t the only one shaping its destiny. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and its Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) played a crucial role in implementing the new provisions. And let’s not forget the United States Congress, who orchestrated the whole show. They hashed out the fine details of the Act, which would impact the lives of millions.
Specific Provisions: The Nitty-gritty
OBRA 1981 didn’t just tinker around the edges; it made some major changes to food assistance programs. Eligibility criteria were tightened, benefit levels were adjusted, and the way programs were run was overhauled. These changes had a profound impact on the number of people receiving assistance, the amount of benefits provided, and the overall effectiveness of the programs.
Controversies and Debates: Fire and Fury
Oh boy, OBRA 1981 didn’t exactly spread joy and harmony. Controversies and debates flared up like wildfire. Proponents argued it was a necessary step towards fiscal responsibility, while opponents decried its harsh effects on the poor and hungry. The discussions surrounding the Act’s impact have continued to this day, proving just how polarizing it remains.
Legacy and Long-Term Effects: The Ripple Effect
The ripples created by OBRA 1981 are still being felt today. Fast forward to the present, and we see how the Act has shaped the development and implementation of food assistance programs. Its provisions have had a lasting impact on how the government addresses hunger and food insecurity in the United States.
Conclusion
So, what’s the takeaway from this OBRA 1981 adventure? It’s a tale of political wrangling, social impact, and ongoing debates. Understanding the Act’s history and its long-term consequences is crucial for anyone interested in food assistance and social policy. And remember, it’s a reminder that even the smallest changes can have ripple effects that shape our society for years to come.
The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981: A History of Food Assistance
Hey there, readers! Let’s dive into the fascinating world of food assistance and the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981. This act was like a game-changer in the world of food stamps and nutrition programs, so buckle up for a wild ride!
Key Players in the Food Assistance Drama
The president at the time, Ronald Reagan, was like the quarterback of this game. He called the shots and signed this act into law. The USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) and its FNS (Food and Nutrition Service) were like the receivers, catching the ball and distributing food to those who needed it. And let’s not forget the US Congress, who passed this act in the first place – they were the ones setting the rules of the game.
Provisions and Impacts: Shake-ups in Food Assistance
The act was like a magic potion, changing the food assistance landscape in many ways. Eligibility rules were tweaked, benefit levels were adjusted, and the whole system was put under the microscope. This meant some people got more help, while others had to say goodbye to some of their food assistance.
Controversies and Debates: A Food Fight
Oh boy, this act sure caused a stir! People were arguing left, right, and center. Proponents were like, “This is the best thing since sliced bread!” They said it made the system more efficient and helped reduce government spending. Opponents were like, “Hold your horses!” They worried it would hurt the most vulnerable people and increase hunger.
Legacy and Long-Term Effects: The Impact Lives On
Fast forward to today, and this act is still leaving its mark on food assistance. It’s like the ghost of Christmas past, haunting the halls of our food policies. Its provisions and impacts have shaped how these programs are run, and its legacy continues to be debated.
Why This Act Matters: Food for Thought
Understanding the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 is like understanding the secret ingredient in your favorite dish. It’s essential for anyone who wants to get a taste of the history, impact, and ongoing debates surrounding food assistance in the US.
So, dear readers, let’s keep the conversation going! Dive into the details, engage in the discussions, and let’s work together to ensure that everyone has access to the food they need to thrive.
The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981: A Tale of Food, Politics, and Controversy
Imagine a world where the very programs designed to feed the hungry are suddenly under fire. That’s what happened when the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 (OBRA) came crashing down like a budget-cutting storm.
Key Players
At the helm was President Ronald Reagan, a budget-slashing superstar who saw OBRA as a way to trim the government’s waistline. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) found themselves on the front lines, forced to implement the painful changes. The United States Congress played a pivotal role in passing the Act, and the American Public Health Association and the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities kept a watchful eye on the health and nutritional impacts.
Provisions and Impacts
OBRA came armed with a slew of changes that shook the food assistance landscape. Eligibility criteria tightened, benefits dwindled, and programs were left on shaky ground. The number of hungry people spiked, and the effectiveness of these vital programs plummeted.
Controversies and Debates
The hallways of power echoed with heated debates over OBRA. Proponents argued it was a necessary evil to balance the budget. Opponents cried foul, claiming it hurt the most vulnerable among us. The discussions continue to this day, a testament to the Act’s lingering impact.
Legacy and Long-Term Effects
OBRA’s legacy is a complex tapestry woven with both positive and negative threads. It forced a reassessment of government spending, but at a cost to those struggling to put food on the table. The Act’s provisions and impacts continue to shape the food assistance landscape, and its controversies remain a topic of ongoing discussion.
The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 is a reminder that the fight against hunger is never truly over. It’s a story of political maneuvering, societal impact, and the enduring importance of providing food to those who need it most. As we navigate the ongoing debates and challenges surrounding OBRA, let’s remember the faces behind the statistics and continue to demand food security for all.
Well, there you have it, folks! The whole truth about Reagan and his role in the food stamp program. It’s a more complicated issue than meets the eye, but it’s always important to have the facts straight. Thanks for taking the time to read this article. If you’re interested in learning more about Reagan or his policies, be sure to check out some of our other posts. And don’t forget to swing by again soon for more fascinating history topics. See ya later!