Frances Perkins was an American writer, workers advocate and also a former secretary of United States labour.
In this article, OldNaijaHistory brings you fascinating events of the life and times of the celebrated American labour activist.
Early Life and Biography
Frances Perkins was born on the 10th of April, 1880 in Boston, Massachusetts. She was an American workers’ rights advocate and a key figure in the New Deal era.
Here are some few information about Frances and her contribution to the US Labour while she was active:
- Longest-Serving Secretary of Labor: Frances Perkins served as the fourth United States Secretary of Labor from 1933 to 1945, making her the longest-serving person in that position. She was a member of the Democratic Party.
- First Woman in a Presidential Cabinet: Perkins holds the distinction of being the first woman ever to serve in a presidential cabinet. Her loyalty to President Franklin D. Roosevelt played a crucial role in advancing labor issues within the emerging New Deal coalition.
- Social Security Architect: One of her most significant contributions was developing the policy for social security in 1935. This landmark legislation provided a safety net for millions of Americans.
- Labor Unions and Mediation: Perkins helped shape government policy for working with labor unions. Despite some union leaders’ initial distrust, her Labor Department effectively mediated strikes through the United States Conciliation Service.
- World War II and Women in the Workforce: During World War II, Perkins dealt with labor issues when skilled workers were essential to the economy. She facilitated the transition of women into jobs previously held by men.
Family, Husband and Children
Her parents were Susan Ella Perkins (née Bean) and Frederick William Perkins. Frederick owned a stationery business, and both parents originally hailed from Maine.
Frances had one sister named Ethel Perkins Harrington, who shared her lineage of work in education.
Death and Cause of Death
Frances Perkins passed away on May 14, 1965, in New York, U.S. at the ripe age of 85 years old.
