Throughout the history of the United States, adult education has played a continuous role in helping adults reach for better lives. In the early 20th century, as this country witnessed expanded growth and tremendous work opportunities, it became apparent that in order to have a productive workforce and economic stability, the language needs of so many arriving immigrants would need to be met in order for them to assimilate into the culture of this country. This paper s is a history of federal legislation and efforts to improve adult education in the United States--a history that may offer some insight and direction in years to come. In the following chapters, this paper discusses the evolution of the Federal Government's role in promoting adult education by placing major legislation, and significant amendments to that legislation, into historical, economic, and social contexts. [Roberta Pawloski is the contributing author.]