Frances Perkins' New Deal Contributions

About

Frances Perkins, the first woman to hold a cabinet position in the U.S., played a pivotal role in shaping the New Deal policies under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. She served as Secretary of Labor from 1933 to 1945, championing reforms that transformed the nation's labor landscape. Perkins' agenda included establishing a 40-hour workweek, minimum wage, unemployment compensation, and abolishing child labor. Her leadership in crafting the Social Security Act of 1935 was instrumental in creating a safety net for the elderly and the unemployed. Perkins also supported the Fair Labor Standards Act, which set national standards for wages and working hours. Her diplomatic skills were crucial in navigating the complex political landscape to secure these reforms. Through her work, Perkins laid the foundation for modern labor protections and social security systems, leaving a lasting impact on American economic and social policies. Her tenure marked a significant shift in U.S. governance, prioritizing workers' rights and social welfare.