Women in History · Head-to-head

Frances Perkins vs Anna Pavlova

Yes — based on their recorded years, Frances Perkins (1880–1965) and Anna Pavlova (1881–1931) were alive at the same time for at least part of their lives.

Years1880–19651881–1931
CountryUnited StatesRussia
RegionAmericasEurope
Known forUS Secretary of LaborBallet dancer
BornBoston, Massachusetts, United StatesSaint Petersburg, Russian Empire
DiedNew York City, United StatesThe Hague, Netherlands

Frances Perkins

The first woman to serve in a US presidential cabinet, whose work as Secretary of Labor helped shape key New Deal era labor protections.

Key achievements

  • Became the first woman to serve in a United States presidential cabinet in 1933
  • Served as US Secretary of Labor for 12 years, the longest tenure in that role's history
  • Helped design and implement key New Deal programs, including Social Security
  • Advocated for improved labor standards and immigrants' rights throughout her career

Fast fact

As Secretary of Labor under Franklin D. Roosevelt, Perkins helped design major New Deal programs including Social Security and federal minimum wage protections.

Full profile of Frances Perkins →

Anna Pavlova

Anna Pavlova was a Russian prima ballerina renowned for creating the role of the Dying Swan and for becoming the first ballerina to tour the world extensively with her own company.

Key achievements

  • Became a principal dancer with the Imperial Russian Ballet and Ballets Russes.
  • Created the iconic role of 'The Dying Swan,' one of ballet's most recognized solos.
  • Formed her own dance company and became the first ballerina to tour the world extensively.
  • Performed across South America, India, Mexico, and Australia, bringing ballet to new global audiences.

Fast fact

Pavlova's signature solo, 'The Dying Swan,' choreographed for her in 1905, became one of the most iconic pieces in ballet history and remains closely associated with her name over a century later.

Full profile of Anna Pavlova →
Who lived first, Frances Perkins or Anna Pavlova?

Frances Perkins (1880–1965) lived first, before Anna Pavlova (1881–1931), based on their recorded years.

Were Frances Perkins and Anna Pavlova contemporaries?

Yes — based on their recorded years, Frances Perkins (1880–1965) and Anna Pavlova (1881–1931) were alive at the same time for at least part of their lives.

What do Frances Perkins and Anna Pavlova have in common?

Both Frances Perkins and Anna Pavlova are grouped among our Women in History figures and lived during the Modern Era.