John Commons

Economist

Birthday October 13, 1862

Birth Sign Libra

Birthplace Ohio

DEATH DATE May 11, 1945 (82)

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About

One of the most noted authorities on labor in the first decades of the 20th century. He helped develop policies like unemployment insurance and did important research into the history of labor unions in the United States.

Before Fame

After finishing his education, he went to teach at the University of Wisconsin, here he wrote his seminal ten-volume work A Documentary History of American Industrial Society.

Trivia

Based on his beliefs, Wisconsin became the first state to introduce unemployment insurance, as well as worker's compensation and legal protection of labor unions.

Family Life

He was born in Hollandsburg, Ohio.

Associated With

Gerald Nye, a Wisconsin politician of a later generation, continued the state's tradition of leftist politics.