How'd That Tax Rebate Work?

So, somewhere in the middle of this finally acknowledged recession, there was a tax rebate. I am just wondering what affect it had on this still visiting recession? As I'm as ignorant as a box of rocks when it comes to economics, I'd sure like to be pointed to a good, simple article or post that shows it's wondrously medicinal qualities. I figure, considering all the hype it got, it must have prevented the recession from turning into a depression.