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This Day in Esoteric Political History
The Push To Impeach Perkins (1939) w/ Rebecca Brenner Graham
Jan 26, 2025
Rebecca Brenner Graham, a postdoctoral research associate at Brown University and author of "Dear Miss Perkins," dives into the impeachment attempt against Frances Perkins, the first female cabinet secretary, in January 1939. The discussion reveals the political pressures Perkins faced during the Red Scare and her advocacy for labor rights. Graham also explores the rising anti-immigrant sentiments of the time, linking them to broader socio-economic issues. Through Perkins' legacy, they highlight how activism can thrive amidst bureaucratic challenges.
22:53
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Quick takeaways
- The impeachment efforts against Frances Perkins in 1939 reflected the intense backlash against New Deal policies amid rising anti-immigrant sentiment.
- Perkins's advocacy for refugees from Nazi Germany showcased her commitment to humanitarian efforts despite the political challenges she faced.
Deep dives
Francis Perkins and the Impeachment Crisis
In January 1939, members of the U.S. House of Representatives proposed impeaching Francis Perkins, the first woman cabinet secretary, due to her failure to deport Harry Bridges, an immigrant labor organizer. This event highlighted the fierce opposition the New Deal faced, particularly from anti-New Dealers who viewed Perkins as a symbol of the labor reforms threatening capitalist interests. The impeachment resolution utilized accusations of treason, underscoring the severity of the political climate and the extent of resentment directed toward those promoting labor rights and immigration. Perkins’s situation was exacerbated by her gender and her progressive policies, which made her a target for amplifying discontent surrounding labor movements at the time.
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