The history of social work in the United Kingdom began with the Elizabethan Poor Law of 1601, establishing state responsibility for the poor. The 19th century saw the emergence of the Charity Organisation Societies (COS), focusing on individual moral failings, and the Settlement Movement (e.g., Toynbee Hall), which advocated for social reform and community living. Post-World War II, the Welfare State integrated social work into public services, leading to its professionalization and a focus on child protection and community care. In the United States, social work developed from similar charitable roots, with the late 19th century bringing the Charity Organization Societies (COS) and the Settlement Movement, notably Jane Addams' Hull House, which championed systemic change. The early 20th century marked professionalization, with Mary Richmond's social casework formalizing practice. The Great Depression and New Deal expanded public welfare roles, leading to modern social work's emphasis on social justice and diverse practice areas.