John Spargo (1876-1966) was a prominent British-American socialist author, journalist, and historian. A prolific writer and speaker, he became a leading public intellectual and reformer in the early 20th century, particularly known for his work exposing the horrors of child labor in the United States.
His groundbreaking expos, The Bitter Cry of the Children (1906), played a crucial role in raising public awareness and galvanizing support for child labor reform. The book documented the appalling conditions faced by young workers in factories and mines, contributing significantly to the passage of progressive legislation aimed at protecting children. Beyond his advocacy for child welfare, Spargo contributed significantly to socialist thought and the American labor movement. His historical analyses provided valuable context for understanding the societal forces shaping the era.