Medicaid is a government healthcare program that provides medical services to low-income individuals and families in the United States. The program was established as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson's Great Society program in 1965, through the passage of the Social Security Amendments, which also created Medicare for older Americans.

Medicaid plays a crucial role in ensuring access to healthcare for millions of Black Americans who may not have been able to afford insurance otherwise. Prior to Medicaid, many Black Americans faced significant barriers to receiving quality healthcare due to systemic discrimination and poverty.

The passage of Medicaid was a significant milestone in Black history as it helped to address some of the health disparities that existed in the African American community. By providing access to essential healthcare services, Medicaid has helped to improve the health outcomes of many Black Americans and continues to be an important safety net for those in need.