Who was the first female Cabinet member in U.S. history?

Frances Perkins was the first female Cabinet member in U.S. history, serving as Secretary of Labor from 1933 to 1945 under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Her appointment marked a significant milestone in the representation of women in government, as she broke through the barriers that had traditionally kept women from holding such high-level positions. During her tenure, Perkins was instrumental in implementing key programs of the New Deal, advocating for labor rights, and working on reforms related to social security and unemployment insurance. This pioneering role set a precedent for future generations of women in politics and leadership positions within the executive branch. The other individuals mentioned, while notable in their own right, served in later administrations and came after Perkins' groundbreaking appointment.