President Franklin D. Roosevelt TLS: Proud of the Progress Made Against Child Labor by the New Deal's National Recovery Administration

Roosevelt, Franklin D.

TLS : Typed Letter Signed

32nd President typed letter signed on White House letterhead, Washington, January 4, 1937, to Nevada Governor Richman Kirman. As the United States industrialized, factory and mine owners hired children for a variety of tasks, as they were especially useful in fixing machinery and navigating the small areas that fully grown adults could not. Children were often hired together with their parents, and many families in mill and mining towns depended on their children's labor to make enough money for necessities. But conditions were deplorable, and it was dangerous work that resulted in the maiming and death of many children.

In this letter, President Roosevelt write to Kirman, whom he addresses "My dear Governor" about child labor laws. "I am sure you will agree with me that one of the most encouraging developments of the past few years is the general agreement that has been reached that child labor should be permanently abolished. Outstanding gains were made under the N. R. A. codes, which have been maintained in many establishments through the voluntary cooperation of employers.".."However, it is closely indicated that child labor, especially in low paid unstandardized types of work, is increasing. I am convinced that Nation-wide minimum standards are necessary and that a way should be found promptly to crystallize in legal safeguards public opinion in behalf of the elimination of child labor.".."Do you not agree with me that ratification of the child labor amendment by the remaining 12 States whose action is necessary to place it in the Constitution is the obvious way to early achievement of our objective? I hope that you will feel that this can be made one of the major items in the legislative program of your State this year." Working children were also deprived the opportunity to attend school. At the start of the 20th century, organizations were formed that sought laws to regulate, and even to prohibit, child labor.

Item #16151

Price: $3,000.00