Letters from an American: March 25, 2025 – Episode Summary
In the March 25, 2025 episode of Letters from an American, host Heather Cox Richardson delves into a pivotal moment in American labor history—the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire of 1911—and explores the enduring legacy of Frances Perkins, a key figure in shaping the nation's social safety net. This episode intricately weaves historical narration with insightful analysis, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of how a tragic event catalyzed significant political and social reforms.
The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire
The episode opens with a gripping recount of the catastrophic Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire that erupted on March 25, 1911, in New York City. Frances Perkins, who would later become the first female U.S. Secretary of Labor, was present near Washington Square when the disaster occurred. Richardson narrates:
[00:07] “A fire had broken out in a garment factory on the upper floors of a building on Washington Square... The only way out was down the elevator, which had been abandoned at the base of its shaft, or through an exit to the roof.”
Perkins witnessed firsthand the chaos and desperation as workers attempted to escape the flames. The tragedy was compounded by the factory owner's decision to lock the roof exits, leading to the heartbreaking loss of 147 lives, either from the fall or smoke inhalation.
Frances Perkins: Witness to Tragedy and Catalyst for Change
Richardson highlights Perkins' immediate response to the disaster, noting her deep shock despite her prior involvement in labor advocacy:
[00:07] “By the time the Triangle Shirtwaist factory fire was out, 147 young people were dead... Perkins had few illusions about industrial America.”
Perkins' background as the head of the New York office of the National Consumers League had already positioned her as a formidable advocate for workers' rights, but the Triangle fire profoundly impacted her commitment to enacting systemic change. Her firsthand experience underscored the urgent need for improved workplace safety and labor conditions.
Public Outcry and Legislative Response
The following day, New Yorkers were galvanized by the fire, leading to widespread public mourning and demands for accountability. Governor Al Smith, then Democratic majority leader in the New York legislature, took a compassionate and proactive stance in the aftermath:
[00:07] “He went along with a number of others to the morgue to support and help... It was a human, decent, natural thing to do, Perkins said.”
Smith's empathy and leadership spurred the creation of a bipartisan commission tasked with improving fire safety in factories. Frances Perkins served as the chief investigator for this commission, which initially aimed to prevent future fires but rapidly expanded its scope to include broader sanitary and labor conditions:
[00:07] “We went on and kept expanding the function of the commission till it came to be the report on sanitary conditions and to provide for their removal... It included almost everything you could think of that had been in agitation for years.”
The commission's comprehensive recommendations laid the groundwork for significant labor reforms, many of which were subsequently enacted into law. Perkins reflected on the monumental impact of these changes:
“Perhaps the new legislation to protect workers had in some way paid the debt society owed to the young people who died in the Triangle Shirtwaist fire... It was, I am convinced, a turning point.”
Perkins' Enduring Influence and Legacy
Frances Perkins' dedication did not end with the initial reforms. In 1919, despite resistance, Governor Smith appointed her to the New York State Industrial Commission to combat corruption undermining the new laws. Her close advisory role continued as she served under Governor Franklin Delano Roosevelt in overseeing the state's labor department.
As the Great Depression unfolded, Perkins emerged as a critical voice against President Herbert Hoover's ineffective policies. Her persistent advocacy for honest reporting and substantial measures to alleviate unemployment highlighted her unwavering commitment to labor rights:
[00:07] “She began to work with leaders from other states to figure out how to protect workers and promote employment by working together.”
In 1933, President-elect Roosevelt recognized her invaluable expertise and appointed her as Secretary of Labor, a position she accepted on the condition that Roosevelt support her ambitious agenda, which included:
- Unemployment insurance
- Health insurance
- Old age insurance
- A 40-hour workweek
- Minimum wage
- Abolition of child labor
Richardson recounts a pivotal moment when Perkins secured Roosevelt's backing:
[00:07] “I remember he looked so startled and he said, well, do you think it can be done? She promised to find out.”
Under Perkins' leadership, the Department of Labor spearheaded substantial public works projects, employing over a million people by 1934. Her efforts culminated in the passage of landmark legislation:
- 1935 Social Security Act: Provided unemployment insurance, aid to homeless and dependent children, maternal and child welfare funds, and public health services.
- 1938 Fair Labor Standards Act: Established a minimum wage, maximum working hours, and banned child labor.
These foundational laws transformed the American workforce and established the social safety nets that protect millions to this day.
Conclusion: A Lasting Impact on American Society
The episode concludes by emphasizing how Frances Perkins turned the tragedy of the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire into a catalyst for enduring social reform. Her relentless pursuit of workers' rights and social justice not only honored the memory of those lost but also fundamentally reshaped American political attitudes and policies towards social responsibility.
Perkins' legacy, as portrayed by Richardson, serves as a testament to the profound impact one dedicated individual can have on society. Her work laid the foundation for modern labor laws and social welfare programs, ensuring that the sacrifices of the past continue to benefit future generations.
[00:07] “There is always a large horizon. There is much to be done... contribute some small part to a program of human betterment for all time.”
Heather Cox Richardson's narration brings to life the historical events and personal dedication of Frances Perkins, offering listeners both an informative and inspiring account of a critical chapter in American history.
Production Credits:
Letters from an American was written and read by Heather Cox Richardson. The episode was produced at Soundscape Productions in Dedham, MA, and features music composed by Michael Moss.