Summoned: Frances Perkins and the General Welfare

Francis Perkins gave FDR a laundry list of goals she wanted to achieve if she took on the job of Secretary of Labor, the first female cabinet member in history. The documentary covers how she achieved those goals and much more, during the Great Depression. The archival film from that era is well done as is her commentary which shows her as an articulate spokesperson for the common man, woman, and child. In one hour the documentary covers her early life growing up in Maine and Massachusetts, her education, and early commitment to a life of public service. The battles she fought in the 1930's for Social Security are still with us today as are some of the reactionary values of the time. She was one of our greatest cabinet members. Well worth an hour of time to learn about this remarkable woman.