The Socialist Party of America

The Socialist Party of America was a political organization founded in 1901 that aimed to promote socialist ideas—such as public ownership of resources, workers’ rights, and economic equality—within the U.S. political system. It sought to influence policies through electoral participation and advocating for social reforms, contrasting with capitalism’s private enterprise focus. The party played a significant role in early 20th-century labor movements and progressive causes. While never a major electoral force, it helped shape debates around economic justice and social welfare, laying groundwork for later progressive and labor-oriented movements.