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, focusing on improving labor conditions and advocating for workers' rights. It aimed to unite skilled workers across various trades and industries to collectively negotiate for better wages, hours, and working conditions. This organization emerged during a time of rapid industrialization and the rise of corporate capitalism, playing a crucial role in shaping labor movements and reforms throughout American history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The AFL was founded by Samuel Gompers, who served as its first president and emphasized practical goals rather than broad political reforms.
2. Initially, the AFL excluded unskilled workers and focused primarily on skilled trades, which contributed to its growth as a powerful force in organized labor.
3. The AFL played a pivotal role in advocating for important labor legislation such as the eight-hour workday and workplace safety standards.
4. Unlike some labor organizations, the AFL adopted a more conservative approach by avoiding strikes unless absolutely necessary and focusing on negotiation.
5. The AFL's influence peaked in the early 20th century, leading to increased membership and significant advancements in workers' rights across various industries.

Review Questions

• How did the American Federation of Labor influence the rise of organized labor movements in the late 19th and early 20th centuries?
  • The American Federation of Labor significantly influenced the rise of organized labor movements by providing a unified voice for skilled workers across different trades. By focusing on practical goals such as better wages, shorter working hours, and improved working conditions, the AFL effectively organized workers to advocate for their rights. This collective action not only strengthened the position of workers but also inspired other labor organizations to form and push for reforms within a rapidly industrializing society.
• Analyze how the goals and strategies of the AFL differed from those of other labor organizations during its early years.
  • The AFL's goals were primarily centered around securing tangible improvements for skilled workers through collective bargaining, contrasting with more radical organizations like the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), which sought broader social changes. The AFL emphasized negotiation over strikes, believing that practical compromises would lead to better outcomes for its members. This more conservative approach allowed the AFL to gain legitimacy among both workers and employers, while other groups favored direct action and political activism, which sometimes led to tensions within the labor movement.
• Evaluate the impact of the American Federation of Labor on labor reforms and social welfare initiatives throughout American history.
  • The American Federation of Labor had a lasting impact on labor reforms and social welfare initiatives by championing critical legislation aimed at protecting workers' rights. Its advocacy led to significant achievements such as the establishment of the eight-hour workday and improved workplace safety regulations. Additionally, through lobbying efforts and partnerships with political leaders, the AFL contributed to the creation of various social welfare programs that addressed worker needs during times of economic hardship. This legacy continues to influence contemporary labor movements and policy discussions surrounding workers' rights.

Related terms

Craft Union: A type of labor union that organizes workers based on their specific skills and trades, focusing on skilled laborers such as carpenters, electricians, and machinists.

Collective Bargaining: The process in which representatives of labor unions negotiate with employers on behalf of workers to establish employment terms such as wages, hours, and working conditions.

Labor Day: A federal holiday celebrated in the United States on the first Monday in September, honoring the contributions of American workers and the labor movement.