Frances Perkins

Definition

Frances Perkins was the first female U.S. cabinet member, serving as Secretary of Labor under President Franklin D. Roosevelt from 1933 to 1945. She played a pivotal role in shaping labor policy and social welfare programs during the New Deal era, fundamentally transforming the role of women in both the workforce and government.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Frances Perkins was instrumental in the establishment of Social Security in 1935, which provided financial support to the elderly and unemployed.
2. She advocated for labor rights, including the implementation of minimum wage laws and the prohibition of child labor.
3. Perkins helped shape policies that led to the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, which set regulations on minimum wage and overtime pay.
4. Her leadership and advocacy paved the way for greater female participation in government and public life during a time when women were often marginalized.
5. Perkins remained an influential figure after WWII, continuing to advocate for labor rights and social justice until her death in 1965.

Review Questions

• How did Frances Perkins influence women's roles in the workforce during her tenure as Secretary of Labor?
  • Frances Perkins significantly influenced women's roles in the workforce by advocating for labor reforms that benefited all workers, including women. She pushed for legislation that aimed at improving working conditions and fair wages, thereby encouraging more women to enter the workforce. Her presence in the cabinet also served as a powerful symbol, demonstrating that women could hold high positions of authority in government and influence policies that directly impacted their lives.
• In what ways did Frances Perkins' policies during the Great Depression reshape gender dynamics within American families?
  • Frances Perkins' policies during the Great Depression reshaped gender dynamics by promoting women's economic independence through access to jobs and fair wages. Her efforts led to increased participation of women in various sectors as they sought employment to support their families. This shift not only challenged traditional gender roles but also altered family structures, as women's contributions to household income became more recognized and valued in society.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of Frances Perkins on future generations of women in government and labor rights movements.
  • The long-term impact of Frances Perkins on future generations of women is profound, as she paved the way for increased female representation in government roles and solidified women's involvement in labor rights movements. Her groundbreaking position as Secretary of Labor inspired many women to pursue careers in public service and advocacy. Additionally, her policies laid the foundation for subsequent labor protections that continue to benefit workers today, making her legacy a critical component of both women's rights and labor history.

Related terms

New Deal: A series of programs and reforms enacted by Franklin D. Roosevelt to address the economic hardships of the Great Depression, focusing on relief, recovery, and reform.

Labor Movement: A social and political movement advocating for the rights and welfare of workers, aimed at improving working conditions, wages, and job security.

Women’s Rights Movement: A social movement seeking to achieve equal rights for women in various spheres, including voting, education, and employment opportunities.