Labor movements fought for worker rights from "summary" of A People's History of the United States by Howard Zinn
Labor movements in the United States have long been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of workers. These movements have historically fought against oppressive working conditions, low wages, and lack of job security. One of the earliest labor movements in the country was the National Labor Union, which was formed in 1866 and advocated for an eight-hour workday and better working conditions for all workers. The Knights of Labor, founded in 1869, took the fight for worker rights a step further by advocating for the abolition of child labor, equal pay for equal work, and the establishment of worker cooperatives. The American Federation of Labor, founded in 1886, focused on organizing skilled workers into trade unions to collectively bargain for better wages and working conditions. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, labor movements faced fierce opposition from government and corporate interests. Workers who participated in strikes or other forms of protest often faced violence and repression. Despite these challenges, labor movements persisted in their fight for worker rights. One of the most notable labor movements in U. S. history was the struggle for the eight-hour workday, which culminated in the nationwide May Day strikes of 1886. The Haymarket Affair, which occurred during one of these strikes in Chicago, resulted in the deaths of several workers and police officers, highlighting the violent nature of the struggle for worker rights. In the early 20th century, labor movements continued to push for reforms such as the establishment of minimum wage laws, workplace safety regulations, and the right to unionize. The Great Depression of the 1930s brought renewed energy to the labor movement, leading to the passage of the National Labor Relations Act in 1935, which guaranteed workers the right to organize and bargain collectively. Despite the gains made by labor movements over the years, the fight for worker rights continues to this day. Issues such as income inequality, precarious work arrangements, and lack of access to healthcare and other benefits remain pressing concerns for workers across the country. Labor movements play a crucial role in advocating for the rights of workers and ensuring that they are treated fairly and justly in the workplace.
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