Frances Perkins once declared, “I came to Washington to work for God, FDR, and the millions of forgotten, plain common workingmen.” This statement perfectly encapsulates the mission of the woman who would become one of the most influential figures in American labor history. As the first woman to hold a U.S. Cabinet position and the driving force behind the creation of Social Security, Perkins reshaped the American workforce and provided a safety net that continues to support millions of Americans today.
Early Life and Education
Born on April 10, 1882, in Boston, Massachusetts, Frances Perkins was raised with a strong sense of civic duty. She graduated from Mount Holyoke College in 1902 and later earned a master’s degree in sociology from Columbia University in 1910. Her early career was marked by a passion for improving labor conditions, leading her to become head of the New York Consumers’ League. In this role, she lobbied for better working hours and safer conditions for laborers, laying the foundation for her future groundbreaking reforms.
A Rising Star in Labor Reform
Perkins’ commitment to workers’ rights led her to positions in New York state government, first serving under Governor Al Smith and later under Franklin D. Roosevelt. Smith, a Tammany Hall politician, was deeply influenced by Perkins’ advocacy for labor reforms. At Smith’s funeral in 1944, two of his political associates were overheard discussing why he had become a social crusader. One concluded, “I’ll tell you. Al Smith read a book. That book was a person, and her name was Frances Perkins. She told him all these things, and he believed her.”
When Roosevelt became governor of New York, he continued to rely on Perkins’ expertise, appointing her as the state’s Industrial Commissioner. Her tenure in this role solidified her reputation as a fierce advocate for workers, and when Roosevelt was elected President in 1932, he brought Perkins with him to Washington.
The First Female Cabinet Member
In 1933, Roosevelt appointed Frances Perkins as Secretary of Labor, making her the first woman to hold a U.S. Cabinet position. She would serve in this role for twelve years, longer than any other Secretary of Labor. Described by historian Arthur Schlesinger Jr. as “brisk and articulate, with vivid dark eyes, a broad forehead, and a pointed chin,” Perkins possessed a strong personality and an unshakable commitment to progress. She was instrumental in writing New Deal legislation, including minimum wage laws and workplace safety regulations, but her most enduring achievement was the creation of Social Security.
Architect of Social Security
In 1934, Roosevelt appointed Perkins as chairwoman of the President’s Committee on Economic Security. This role put her at the forefront of drafting what would become the Social Security Act of 1935. She tirelessly worked through reports, hearings, and debates, ensuring that the legislation addressed the pressing needs of America’s elderly and unemployed. Perkins understood that economic security was essential for the dignity of the common worker and saw Social Security as a means to prevent widespread poverty among the aged.
Despite facing opposition from business interests and conservative politicians, Perkins persisted, using her political acumen and Roosevelt’s support to push the Social Security Act through Congress. On August 14, 1935, President Roosevelt signed the landmark legislation into law, creating a safety net that continues to provide financial security to millions of Americans.
Later Career and Legacy
Perkins remained Secretary of Labor until 1945, when President Harry Truman appointed her to the U.S. Civil Service Commission. She served in this capacity until 1952, resigning after the death of her husband. Even after leaving government service, she remained active as a teacher and lecturer, sharing her vast knowledge of labor policy and social welfare.
Frances Perkins passed away on May 14, 1965, but her legacy endures. The Social Security system she championed remains one of the most significant and enduring pieces of legislation in American history. Her tireless efforts on behalf of workers transformed the nation, ensuring that economic security became a fundamental right rather than a privilege.
Conclusion
Frances Perkins’ unwavering commitment to labor reform, social justice, and economic security reshaped the American workforce. Her pioneering role as the first female Cabinet member and the architect of Social Security cemented her place as one of the most important figures in U.S. history. Thanks to her vision and determination, millions of Americans have been granted dignity and stability in their later years. Indeed, Perkins’ work for “God, FDR, and the millions of forgotten, plain common workingmen” remains one of the greatest contributions to the American social fabric.
