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Knights of Labor

Definition

The Knights of Labor was an American labor organization established in 1869 that sought to include all laborers into one large union and advocated for broad social reforms.

Analogy

Think of the Knights of Labor as a school's student council that represents all students, regardless of their grade or major, and works towards improving the overall school environment.

Related terms

Inclusive Unionism: This is the idea that all workers, regardless of skill level or industry, should be included in a single union. It's like having a student council that represents everyone from freshmen to seniors.

Social Reform Movement: These are efforts to improve society by addressing issues like poverty and inequality. Like when a student council advocates for healthier cafeteria food or better study spaces.

Industrial Workers of the World (IWW): Also known as "Wobblies," this international labor union was founded in Chicago in 1905 and believed in revolutionary industrial unionism. They're like an even more ambitious student council aiming not just for school improvements but changes across the entire education system.