American Federation of Labor

Definition

The American Federation of Labor (AFL) was a national federation of labor unions in the United States founded in 1886, aimed at organizing skilled workers and advocating for their rights. The AFL focused on improving labor conditions, wages, and working hours through collective bargaining and strikes, playing a significant role in the broader labor movement during a time of rapid industrialization and social reform.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The AFL was founded by Samuel Gompers and emphasized organizing skilled workers rather than unskilled laborers, which distinguished it from other labor organizations.
2. The federation sought to create a unified voice for labor in America by representing numerous craft unions under its umbrella.
3. One of the AFL's key achievements was advocating for the eight-hour workday, significantly influencing labor laws and workers' rights in the United States.
4. The AFL was known for its pragmatic approach, often avoiding more radical tactics favored by groups like the IWW, focusing instead on negotiation and gradual reform.
5. By the early 20th century, the AFL had grown significantly, representing over 1.7 million workers, which made it one of the most powerful labor organizations in the country.

Review Questions

• How did the American Federation of Labor differentiate itself from other labor organizations during its formation?
  • The American Federation of Labor distinguished itself by focusing primarily on organizing skilled workers rather than unskilled laborers. This strategic decision allowed the AFL to secure better wages and working conditions for its members, as skilled workers were often in higher demand. Additionally, the AFL's emphasis on collective bargaining set it apart from more radical labor movements that advocated for direct action and broader social change.
• In what ways did the American Federation of Labor influence labor laws in the United States?
  • The American Federation of Labor significantly influenced labor laws by advocating for reforms such as the eight-hour workday and better working conditions. Through collective bargaining efforts, strikes, and political lobbying, the AFL was able to push for legislation that improved worker rights. Their success in negotiating with employers not only established important precedents but also inspired future generations of labor activists to continue fighting for worker protections.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of the American Federation of Labor on the labor movement in America and its legacy today.
  • The long-term impact of the American Federation of Labor on the American labor movement is profound, as it established a framework for organized labor that emphasized negotiation over confrontation. The AFL's strategies set standards for how unions operate today and laid groundwork for future labor laws that continue to protect workers' rights. Its legacy is evident in contemporary unions that still follow principles championed by the AFL, such as collective bargaining and advocating for fair working conditions, demonstrating how their foundational work has shaped modern labor relations.

Related terms

Collective Bargaining: The process by which labor unions negotiate with employers on behalf of workers to establish the terms of employment, including wages, hours, and working conditions.

Trade Unions: Organizations formed by workers from related fields to protect their rights and interests, often collaborating to improve conditions and negotiate with employers.

Industrial Workers of the World (IWW): A radical labor organization founded in 1905 that aimed to unite all workers and promote direct action, including strikes and sabotage, in pursuit of workers' rights.