Norman Thomas

Norman Thomas was an American socialist, minister, and lifelong activist born in 1884. He was a prominent leader of the Socialist Party of America, advocating for social and economic reforms such as improved workers’ rights, public ownership of major industries, and social justice. Although he ran for U.S. president six times, he never won, but he used his campaigns to promote his ideas. Thomas was also known for his speeches defending civil liberties and criticizing inequality, often emphasizing the importance of community and collective helps over individual greed. His work influenced discussions on socialism and social reform in the U.S.