Socialist Party of America (historical)

The Socialist Party of America (SPA), founded in 1901, was a political organization advocating for socialist policies, including public ownership of major industries, workers' rights, and economic equality. It aimed to promote democratic socialism within the U.S. political system, emphasizing reforms rather than revolutionary change. The party attracted activists, labor organizers, and intellectuals and participated in elections, often opposing capitalism and imperialism. Although it never gained major electoral power, the SPA influenced labor movements and progressive politics, remaining active until the mid-20th century as part of broader efforts to promote social and economic justice.