November 4 - Will Rogers is Born

Labor History in 2:00 · Nov 4, 2026 · 1m

On this day in Labor History the year was 1879.

That was the day that Will Rogers was born in Oologah, Indian Territory, in what later became Oklahoma.

Rogers grew up on a ranch, and by 10th grade had dropped out of school to be a cowboy.

Skilled with a lasso, he became a cowboy entertainer first in vaudeville then in silent film.

Rogers also had a syndicated column and a radio show where he became a popular political commentator.

With quick wit and humor Rogers helped to shape public opinion.

He brought humor to serious issues in a way later echoed by the likes of John Stewart and Stephen…