Secretary of Labor

Definition

The Secretary of Labor is a member of the President's Cabinet responsible for overseeing the U.S. Department of Labor and ensuring the welfare of job seekers, wage earners, and retirees. During the Great Depression, this position took on increased importance as the nation faced massive unemployment, labor disputes, and the need for economic recovery initiatives.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Frances Perkins was the first woman to serve as Secretary of Labor, holding the position from 1933 to 1945.
2. Under Perkins' leadership, the Department of Labor played a key role in developing policies that addressed unemployment and improved working conditions during the Great Depression.
3. The Secretary of Labor was instrumental in supporting labor rights through legislation like the Wagner Act, which protected workers' rights to unionize.
4. Perkins advocated for social security programs that provided financial assistance to unemployed workers and retirees as part of the New Deal framework.
5. The position helped to create a more organized approach to labor issues, influencing how government interacted with labor unions and addressing worker grievances.

Review Questions

• How did the role of Secretary of Labor change during the Great Depression compared to previous economic periods?
  • During the Great Depression, the role of Secretary of Labor evolved significantly as it became crucial in managing widespread unemployment and labor unrest. Unlike previous economic periods where labor issues may have been less urgent, the Secretary had to actively advocate for workers' rights, address economic recovery through job creation initiatives, and implement programs designed to improve labor conditions. This shift highlighted the need for government intervention in labor relations amid unprecedented economic challenges.
• What impact did Frances Perkins have on labor policies during her tenure as Secretary of Labor?
  • Frances Perkins was a transformative figure in American labor policy as she served as Secretary of Labor during a time when the country faced extreme economic hardship. She was instrumental in shaping New Deal programs that not only addressed immediate unemployment but also established long-term protections for workers. Her advocacy led to the implementation of significant legislation such as the Wagner Act and Social Security Act, both of which had lasting effects on labor rights and worker security in the United States.
• Evaluate the significance of the Secretary of Labor's initiatives during the Great Depression in shaping modern labor relations in America.
  • The initiatives led by the Secretary of Labor during the Great Depression were pivotal in shaping modern labor relations by institutionalizing protections for workers and creating a framework for government involvement in economic issues. Policies established under Frances Perkins not only responded to immediate crises but also laid the groundwork for future labor rights movements. The emphasis on collective bargaining rights through acts like the Wagner Act set precedents that continue to influence labor relations today, demonstrating how this cabinet position adapted to meet national needs during challenging times.

Related terms

New Deal:

A series of programs and policies implemented by President Franklin D. Roosevelt aimed at providing relief, recovery, and reform during the Great Depression.

Wagner Act:

Also known as the National Labor Relations Act of 1935, it established the right of workers to organize unions and engage in collective bargaining.

Social Security Act:

A 1935 law that created a system of old-age benefits for workers, unemployment insurance, and aid for dependent mothers and children.