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The Woman Behind the New Deal

The Life and Legacy of Frances Perkins, Social Security, Unemployment Insurance,and the Minimum Wage
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( 2,614 ratings, 499 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Woman Behind the New Deal by Kirstin Downey explores the life and impact of Frances Perkins, who was the first female U.S. Cabinet member. The book highlights her influential role in shaping major aspects of the New Deal, including social security and labour laws, showcasing her dedication to improving the lives of Americans during a pivotal era.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$5700

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This title is in-stock with overseas suppliers. While it is not available locally, we fly books in weekly from the US and UK to our Auckland warehouse for immediate dispatch.

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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you're interested in learning about the influential figures who shaped modern America, especially through social reform and economic policy. It vividly portrays the life and work of a pioneering woman who played a central role in developing the New Deal, offering insights into her strategies, challenges, and resilience. Perfect for those who enjoy biographies that highlight the achievements and struggles of trailblazing individuals.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

“Kirstin Downey’s lively, substantive and—dare I say—inspiring new biography of Perkins . . . not only illuminates Perkins’ career but also deepens the known contradictions of Roosevelt’s character.” —Maureen Corrigan, NPR Fresh Air

One of Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s closest friends and the first female secretary of labour, Perkins capitalised on the president’s political savvy and popularity to enact most of the Depression-era programmes that are today considered essential parts of the country’s social safety network.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Woman Behind the New Deal by Kirstin Downey offers an engaging exploration of Frances Perkins, the first female cabinet member in American history. Reviews highlight its compelling portrayal of her contributions to social welfare policies, underscoring the narrative as both educational and inspirational, with many readers appreciating the detailed research and lively storytelling.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781400078561

Publisher: Random House USA Inc

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 23 February 2010

Country: United States

Imprint: Vintage Books

Illustration: 16 PAGES OF B&W

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 27.0mm

Width: 131.0mm

Height: 202.0mm

Weight: 397g

Pages: 496

About the Author

Kirstin Downey is a frequent contributor to The Washington Post, where she was a staff writer from 1988 to 2008, winning press association awards for her business and economic reporting. She shared in the 2008 Pulitzer Prize awarded to the Post staff for its coverage of the Virginia Tech shootings. In 2000, she was awarded a Nieman fellowship at Harvard University. She lives in Washington, D.C.

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