Known as the progressive movement, American socialism sought to protect workers from the Robber Barons that flourished during the Gilded Age. Teddy Roosevelt was a leader in this movement offering his Square Deal to American Workers. As industry lobbied government to undo the Square Deal reforms, the Great Depression created an American public outcry. That outcry gave rise to a restatement of the Square Deal, which Teddys younger cousin Franklin presented as the New Deal. Social Security, Public Education, Child Labor Laws, Workers Compensation, and Unemployment Compensation are among the numerous American Socialist programs.
We strive to educate the public about American Socialism. Unfortunately Cold War rhetoric equated socialism with authoritarian regimes. We want to help the public understand it was early twentieth century socialist principals that initiated modern worker protections. It is time for a new era of worker protection to protect future generations.