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Jeff Smith
138quotes
Jeff Smith
The Forgotten Hero of American Labor Unions
Full Name and Common Aliases
Jefferson Lee "Jeff" Smith was an American labor union leader and politician who is often associated with the Progressive Movement of the early 20th century. He was commonly known as Jeff Smith, but his full name remains a testament to the humble beginnings that shaped his life's work.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on February 3, 1874, in Hannibal, Missouri, Jeff Smith grew up amidst the rugged landscape of rural America. His early life would later shape his commitment to social justice and workers' rights. Tragically, his life was cut short when he was murdered on June 1, 1939, at the age of 65.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Jeff Smith was an American by birth and a labor union leader by profession. He dedicated his life to advocating for workers' rights and social justice, often taking stands that put him at odds with powerful interests.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Missouri, Jeff Smith was exposed to the struggles of rural America firsthand. His family's meager income forced them to move frequently, instilling in him a strong sense of resilience and determination. This early life experience would later fuel his passion for social justice and workers' rights. After completing his education, Smith moved to Kansas City, where he became involved in labor organizing.
Major Accomplishments
Jeff Smith's contributions to the labor movement were significant. He co-founded the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) District 14 in Missouri and served as its president from 1917 until his death in 1939. During this period, he worked tirelessly to improve wages and working conditions for miners, often facing fierce resistance from mine owners and government officials.
Notable Works or Actions
One of Jeff Smith's most notable achievements was his role in the "Court Fight" against Missouri Senator Thomas J. Walsh. In 1928, Smith was indicted on a trumped-up charge of income tax evasion as part of a larger effort to discredit him and suppress labor organizing efforts in Missouri. This high-profile case drew national attention and galvanized public support for workers' rights.
Impact and Legacy
Jeff Smith's impact on the labor movement cannot be overstated. He was a key figure in shaping the UMWA's agenda, pushing for better working conditions, higher wages, and stronger collective bargaining agreements. His commitment to social justice extended beyond his own union, as he worked closely with other progressive organizations to advocate for workers' rights across industries.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Jeff Smith is remembered today as a champion of workers' rights and a fierce advocate for social justice. His legacy continues to inspire labor organizers, politicians, and social activists around the world. His willingness to challenge powerful interests and take risks in pursuit of a more just society has made him an enduring figure in American history.
In conclusion, Jeff Smith's life and work serve as a testament to the power of dedication and conviction in the face of adversity. As we reflect on his contributions to the labor movement, we are reminded that social justice is not merely a theoretical ideal but a living, breathing cause that requires ongoing effort and sacrifice from individuals like Jeff Smith who have given their lives to its pursuit.
Quotes by Jeff Smith
Jeff Smith's insights on:
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As I got into the animation, as I learned more about the business, I learned that you need a lot of people to do anything animated – even a short, let alone a feature film. And you need a lot of money.
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I think the audience is truly all ages: I don’t put anything in there that kids can’t see, or shouldn’t see, but I have to keep it interesting for me as an adult.
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I think his discovery scared even him. Sometimes Frankenstein has to kill his own monster.
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I don’t go for the nouvelle approach – serving a rabbit rump with coffee extract sauce and a slice of kiwi fruit.
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Walt Kelly was much more interested in allegory and politics, and I’m much more interested in metaphors and myth.
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I’m 40 years old, and I still love watching Bugs Bunny slap the bull on the nose. I still watch those cartoons, and yet I also enjoy reading books about science, or the current fiction.
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All kids draw some kind of cartoon characters. They just grow out of them, and I didn’t.
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Omit and substitute! That’s how recipes should be written. Please don’t ever get so hung up on published recipes that you forget that you can omit and substitute.
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