Selects: Frances Perkins: Influential and Unknown
Stuff You Should Know
Deep Dive
Why is Frances Perkins considered one of the most influential yet unsung Americans?
Frances Perkins is considered one of the most influential yet unsung Americans because she played a crucial role in shaping key New Deal policies, including the creation of Social Security, unemployment insurance, and the Fair Labor Standards Act. Despite her significant contributions, she was often overlooked in historical accounts, partly due to her gender.
Why did Frances Perkins change her name?
Frances Perkins changed her name from Fanny Coralie Perkins in her 20s or 30s. She wanted to distance herself from the conservative views of her parents and embrace a more progressive identity, reflecting her commitment to social justice and labor rights.
Why did the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire have a profound impact on Frances Perkins's career?
The Triangle Shirtwaist Fire, which killed 146 workers, deeply affected Frances Perkins. Witnessing the tragedy firsthand, she became a leading advocate for worker safety, pushing for fire codes, exit signs, occupancy limits, and other safety measures. This event solidified her commitment to labor reform and led to significant legislative changes.
Why was Frances Perkins appointed as the Secretary of Labor by FDR?
Frances Perkins was appointed as the Secretary of Labor by FDR because of her extensive experience in labor and social policy, her reputation for hard work, and her expertise in worker safety and wage justice. FDR recognized her talent and trusted her to lead the Department of Labor during the challenging times of the Great Depression.
Why did Frances Perkins face opposition from labor unions when she became Secretary of Labor?
Frances Perkins faced opposition from labor unions because she had a background in social work and policy, not labor. Unions were initially wary of her, but she won them over through her actions and policies, such as the Wagner Act, which gave workers the right to unionize and collectively bargain.
Why did Congress attempt to impeach Frances Perkins?
Congress attempted to impeach Frances Perkins because she refused to deport an Australian longshoreman who had organized a general strike in San Francisco. Despite her personal reservations about the individual, she stood firm on the principle that the deportation was politically motivated and lacked sufficient evidence.
Why did Frances Perkins play a crucial role in helping Jewish refugees during World War II?
Frances Perkins played a crucial role in helping Jewish refugees during World War II by using her position in the Department of Labor to relax immigration quotas and aid refugees. She ensured that about 55,000 Jewish German immigrants and 200,000 others made their way to the United States, saving them from the horrors of the Holocaust.
- Frances Perkins is one of the most influential yet unknown Americans.
- She is largely responsible for the creation of unemployment insurance.
- Her public persona was serious, but this was a tactic to gain respect from male colleagues.
Shownotes Transcript