Throughline: The Woman Behind The New Deal Host: Rund Abdelfatah and Ramtin Arablouei | NPR | Release Date: June 5, 2025

Introduction: Witnessing Tragedy

On March 25, 1911, a devastating fire broke out at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in Manhattan, New York City. The fire claimed the lives of 146 workers, mostly young immigrant women, and profoundly impacted those who witnessed the tragedy. Among these witnesses was Frances Perkins, who would later become a pivotal figure in American history.

Frances Perkins (04:18): "I'll never forget that time. Never, never forget it."

Early Life and Education

Frances Perkins was born into a middle-class religious family that highly valued education. At 18 years old, she began her studies at Mount Holyoke College in 1898, where she pursued a degree in science—an uncommon path for women at the time.

Frances Perkins (09:23): "It was even thought to be somewhat dangerous for a woman's health to pursue higher education. She might have fits or fevers. It might over exert her."

During her time at Mount Holyoke, Perkins became the president of her senior class, exemplifying her leadership qualities and dedication to her peers.

Activism Beginnings: Hull House

Upon graduating in 1902, Perkins moved to New York City with a renewed sense of activism. She joined the Charity Organization Society but soon shifted her focus to education, taking a teaching position in Chicago. Her passion for social reform led her to Hull House, a pioneering settlement house founded by Jane Addams.

Frances Perkins (14:49): "Perkins would go out with older social workers and they would go to the homes of some of these families that were living through terrible social breakdown."

At Hull House, Perkins witnessed firsthand the harsh realities faced by immigrant families, including overcrowded living conditions, child labor, and rampant poverty. These experiences fueled her determination to create meaningful social change.

Undercover Activism and Early Challenges

In 1907, Perkins expanded her activism by moving to Philadelphia, where she went undercover to expose the exploitation of young migrant women by human traffickers. This dangerous work showcased her courage and commitment to protecting vulnerable populations.

Frances Perkins (17:08): "I was considerably alarmed because it was relatively late, 11 o'clock or so, and I was alone on a quiet street."

Her efforts not only safeguarded these women but also highlighted the systemic issues plaguing the workforce, further solidifying her role as a key advocate for labor rights.

The Triangle Fire and Its Aftermath

The devastating Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in 1911 was a turning point for Perkins. The tragedy underscored the urgent need for labor reform and workplace safety regulations. Inspired by the catastrophe, Perkins dedicated herself to improving industrial conditions.

Frances Perkins (24:10): "Something was wrong in that building, or it never could have happened."

She joined the Factory Investigating Commission, where she conducted exhaustive research and advocated for comprehensive safety measures.

Political Ascent: Collaboration with Al Smith

Perkins's exemplary work caught the attention of Al Smith, the Governor of New York, who appointed her to the New York State Industrial Commission in 1919. Her collaboration with Smith positioned her as a leading voice in labor reform.

Frances Perkins (26:09): "And she became one of five commissioners overseeing working conditions throughout the whole state."

Meeting Franklin D. Roosevelt: A Critical Alliance

Perkins's path would intertwine with that of Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR), whom she initially underestimated. However, after FDR's bout with polio and their subsequent deepening friendship, Perkins became a trusted advisor.

Frances Perkins (27:32): "I had a little list of programs and priorities in my pocket."

Secretary of Labor: Shaping the New Deal

In 1933, as the Great Depression ravaged the United States, FDR appointed Perkins as the Secretary of Labor, making her the first woman to serve in a presidential cabinet. Tasked with revitalizing a nearly defunct department, Perkins transformed it into a powerhouse of labor reform.

Frances Perkins (36:16): "Madam Secretary."

Perkins implemented groundbreaking policies, including:

• Work Hour Limitations
• Ban on Child Labor
• Minimum Wage Laws
• Unemployment Insurance
• Social Security

Frances Perkins (25:22): "Some of the things that they got done are smoking in factories banned. They established a requirement that factories should have automatic water sprinklers."

Social Security: A Landmark Achievement

One of Perkins's most significant contributions was the Social Security Act of 1935, designed to provide income support for the elderly, unemployed, and disabled. Despite initial resistance labeling it as "the dole," Perkins defended it vehemently.

Frances Perkins (40:50): "It's an insurance system. It's not an entitlement."

The act fundamentally changed the American safety net, pulling millions of elderly out of poverty and establishing a lasting legacy of social welfare.

Frances Perkins (41:44): "Perkins considers this her single biggest victory of her life."

Challenges and Resilience

Perkins faced considerable opposition. When she defended labor leader Harry Bridges' right to due process, she was met with severe backlash, including impeachment attempts. Despite this, FDR remained supportive, albeit discreetly.

Frances Perkins (43:14): "This was obviously controversial in some circles."

Her perseverance ensured that justice prevailed, even when it risked her reputation.

World War II and Final Contributions

As World War II loomed, Perkins played a crucial role in shaping labor policies to support the war effort without drafting women into combat roles.

Frances Perkins (46:35): "If we take young, able-bodied women and draft them and send them to war, who's going to take care of everybody they left behind who they've been taking care of?"

Her stance underscored the importance of women's roles in maintaining societal stability during wartime.

Legacy and Conclusion

Frances Perkins served as Secretary of Labor until FDR's death in 1945, the longest tenure in the department's history. Her visionary policies not only addressed immediate economic crises but also laid the foundation for modern labor laws and social welfare systems.

Frances Perkins (49:10): "She gives us hope. She faced problems that seemed intractable and she found solutions."

After her political career, Perkins continued to influence future generations as a lecturer at Cornell University until her death in 1965. Her life's work remains integral to America's social and economic fabric, embodying the spirit of resilience and unwavering dedication to public service.

Frances Perkins (48:44): "No political party, no political group could possibly destroy this act and still maintain our democratic system. It is safe. It is safe forever and for the benefit of the people of the United States."

Key Takeaways

• Frances Perkins was a trailblazer in American politics, becoming the first female cabinet member as Secretary of Labor.
• The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire was a pivotal event that propelled her into advocacy for labor reforms.
• Perkins's leadership was instrumental in the creation and implementation of the Social Security Act, which remains a cornerstone of the American social safety net.
• Her resilience in the face of political challenges and her ability to collaborate with influential leaders like FDR underscore her significance in shaping modern America.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Frances Perkins (04:29): "In front of New York."
• Frances Perkins (25:22): "Some of the things that they got done are smoking in factories banned..."
• Frances Perkins (41:44): "Perkins considers this her single biggest victory of her life."
• Frances Perkins (49:10): "She gives us hope..."

Conclusion

Frances Perkins's legacy is a testament to the impact one individual can have on society. Through her relentless pursuit of justice and equality, she not only navigated the complexities of her time but also laid the groundwork for future advancements in labor rights and social welfare.

This summary captures the essence of "The Woman Behind The New Deal" episode of "Throughline" by NPR, highlighting Frances Perkins's journey and her monumental contributions to American society.