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Perkins, Frances 1882-1965

U.S. SECRETARY OF LABOR 1933-1945

Advocate of Workers.

Frances Perkins was the first woman ever appointed to a cabinet position in the United States. As secretary of labor during all of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's administrations she was instrumental in shaping government recognition of the American labor movement. By rebuilding a nearly defunct department she was able to enforce the sweeping legislation that emerged from the New Deal, which aimed to impart rights and dignity ordinary working people never before enjoyed. As an expert on the health and safety of workers, especially women and children, Perkins left an indelible stamp upon the Labor Department and contributed to widespread public support for fair and safe workplaces.

Social Reformer.

Born in Boston on 10 April 1882 to a prosperous upper-middle-class family, in 1902 Perkins graduated from Mount Holyoke College, where she adopted the...

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