Final answer:
President Eisenhower championed the interstate highway system for its defense and economic benefits, recognizing that poorly maintained highways posed security and financial risks. His advocacy led to the Federal Highway Act of 1956, which significantly improved the quality and connectivity of American roads while also having negative economic impacts on bypassed communities.
Step-by-step explanation:
President Eisenhower was a significant proponent of the interstate highway system, viewing it as a critical piece of infrastructure for national defense and economic growth. The Federal Highway Act of 1956, influenced by the inadequacies of the existing roads and inspired by the German Autobahn, led to the creation of thousands of miles of new highways that facilitated the rapid movement of troops and equipment. Eisenhower supported the highways for their defense value, recognizing that highways in poor condition were not only a threat to national security but also a drain on economic resources.
However, the development of these high-speed roadways also had unintended consequences, including the bypassing of small towns, which led to economic declines in those areas. This demonstrates that while Eisenhower saw the value in improved highways, he was also cognizant of potential harm such as wasteful spending and reduced governmental accountability.