ABSTRACT
Disasters of all kinds have plagued the United States since its earliest days. The federal government first provided financial assistance in 1803, aiding New Hampshire after an especially devastating fire. Congress subsequently passed ad hoc legislation over one hundred times to empower multiple federal agencies to assist after earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters. 1 The Reconstruction Finance Corporation provided disaster loans; the Bureau of Public Roads, bridge and road repair; and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, flood control.
