American Federation of Labor (AFL)

Definition

The American Federation of Labor (AFL) was a national federation of labor unions in the United States founded in 1886. It focused on organizing skilled workers and advocating for their rights, emphasizing practical goals such as higher wages, shorter working hours, and better working conditions. The AFL played a significant role in the labor movement during the Gilded Age and helped lay the groundwork for future labor organizations and policies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The AFL was formed by a merger of several national trade unions, primarily focusing on skilled workers from various trades.
2. The organization advocated for practical goals rather than broad social reforms, which differentiated it from more radical labor movements like the Knights of Labor.
3. Under Gompers' leadership, the AFL emphasized collective bargaining as a key strategy to improve workers' conditions.
4. The AFL's membership grew significantly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, reflecting the increasing importance of organized labor in American society.
5. The AFL laid the foundation for future labor rights advancements, influencing legislation related to workers' rights and workplace safety.

Review Questions

• How did the AFL's focus on skilled workers shape its strategies and goals compared to other labor movements of the time?
  • The AFL's emphasis on organizing skilled workers allowed it to adopt a more pragmatic approach to labor issues, focusing on achievable goals like better wages and working conditions. This contrasted with broader movements such as the Knights of Labor that sought extensive social reforms. By targeting skilled trades, the AFL was able to negotiate more effectively with employers, utilizing collective bargaining to secure specific benefits for its members.
• In what ways did Samuel Gompers contribute to the growth and influence of the American Federation of Labor?
  • Samuel Gompers played a crucial role in establishing the AFL's direction and priorities as its first president. He advocated for practical objectives that directly benefited workers, such as higher wages and shorter hours, steering the organization away from radical ideologies. Under his leadership, the AFL expanded its membership base and strengthened its negotiating power through collective bargaining, making it a key player in the American labor movement.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of the American Federation of Labor on labor rights in the United States and how it influenced future labor organizations.
  • The American Federation of Labor had a significant long-term impact on labor rights in the United States by establishing effective strategies for negotiation and representation. Its focus on skilled labor set a precedent for how unions could advocate for specific workplace improvements without resorting to more radical tactics. The AFL's success in collective bargaining paved the way for future labor organizations like the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) and influenced major legislative reforms related to workers' rights, ultimately shaping modern labor relations in America.

Related terms

Samuel Gompers:

The first president of the AFL, Samuel Gompers was instrumental in shaping the organization and advocating for the rights of laborers throughout his leadership.

Collective Bargaining: A process where workers negotiate with employers to establish terms of employment, such as wages and working conditions, often facilitated by labor unions like the AFL.

Craft Unions: Labor unions that focus on skilled trades and professions, which were central to the AFL's membership and strategy for improving workers' rights.