Final answer:
The Federal Reserve System, commonly referred to as the Fed, was established in 1913 to regulate the banking industry and conduct monetary policy. Federal Reserve notes help to strengthen the US economy by providing a stable currency, controlling interest rates, and acting as a lender of last resort.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Federal Reserve System, commonly referred to as the Fed, was established in 1913 as the central bank of the United States. It is owned by private member banks and works to regulate the banking industry, conduct monetary policy, and provide services to the government. The system consists of twelve regional reserve banks and a Federal Reserve Board.
Federal Reserve notes, which are the currency issued by the Fed, help to strengthen the US economy in several ways. Firstly, they provide a stable and widely accepted form of currency for transactions, which promotes economic activity. Secondly, through its monetary policy, the Fed can control interest rates to manage inflation and stimulate economic growth. Lastly, the Fed's ability to act as a lender of last resort during times of financial crisis helps to maintain stability in the banking system and prevent economic downturns.