Florence Kelley

Florence Kelley (September 12, 1859 – February 17, 1932) was a pioneering American social and political activist. She is best known for her work in advocating for labor rights, particularly concerning women and children, as well as her efforts to improve working conditions in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Kelley was a leading force in the labor reform movement and was one of the first to highlight the dangerous conditions faced by women and children working in factories. She was instrumental in pushing for child labor laws, better working hours, and improved wages for workers.

She served as the chief factory inspector for Illinois from 1893 to 1896, a role that allowed her to directly influence labor laws and policies. Kelley also played a key role in the establishment of the National Consumers League (NCL), where she worked to promote fair labor practices and support the rights of working-class people.

Kelley was a committed advocate for women's suffrage, social justice, and the welfare of children. She was also a prominent member of various organizations that championed civil rights and social reform. Her writings and speeches helped to raise awareness about the exploitation of vulnerable workers, and she helped to shape policies that improved labor standards across the country.

Her lifelong commitment to activism and social reform made her one of the most important figures in the history of American labor rights and social justice.