The Department of Health, Education, and Welfare (HEW) was a United States government agency established in 1953. Its primary purpose was to oversee and coordinate federal programs related to public health, education, and social welfare. HEW aimed to improve the quality of life for Americans through various initiatives and policies. In 1979, HEW was reorganized, leading to the creation of two separate departments: the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Education. This restructuring allowed for more focused management of health and education services, enhancing the effectiveness of federal programs in these critical areas.