National Labor Relations Act

Definition

The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), also known as the Wagner Act, was enacted in 1935 to protect the rights of employees and employers, to encourage collective bargaining, and to curtail certain private sector labor and management practices that could harm the general welfare of workers. This act marked a significant shift in labor relations, especially during the Great Depression, as it aimed to empower workers to organize unions and engage in collective bargaining without fear of retaliation from employers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The NLRA was part of Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal programs aimed at revitalizing the economy and improving labor conditions during the Great Depression.
2. It provided workers with the legal right to form unions and engage in collective bargaining, a major advancement in labor rights.
3. The act prohibited employers from engaging in unfair labor practices such as discriminating against employees for union involvement.
4. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) was created as a result of the NLRA to oversee elections for labor union representation and investigate unfair labor practices.
5. The NLRA significantly increased union membership and strengthened the position of workers in negotiating with employers, contributing to improved wages and working conditions.

Review Questions

• How did the National Labor Relations Act change the landscape of labor relations during the Great Depression?
  • The National Labor Relations Act fundamentally transformed labor relations by giving workers the legal right to organize into unions and engage in collective bargaining without fear of employer retaliation. This was crucial during the Great Depression when many workers faced dire economic circumstances and exploitative working conditions. By empowering workers, the NLRA helped to create a more balanced dynamic between labor and management, which was essential for improving overall economic stability.
• What role did the National Labor Relations Board play in enforcing the provisions of the National Labor Relations Act?
  • The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) was established by the NLRA to oversee and enforce labor laws related to collective bargaining and unfair labor practices. The NLRB has the authority to conduct elections for union representation, investigate complaints from workers or unions regarding unfair treatment by employers, and enforce compliance with labor regulations. This oversight was crucial for ensuring that workers' rights were protected, thus fostering a more equitable work environment.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of the National Labor Relations Act on American labor movements and economic conditions beyond the Great Depression.
  • The long-term impact of the National Labor Relations Act on American labor movements has been profound. By solidifying workers' rights to organize and bargain collectively, the NLRA helped foster a robust labor movement that led to significant gains in wages, benefits, and working conditions throughout the mid-20th century. This empowerment of labor not only contributed to the growth of a strong middle class but also influenced social policies and economic reforms that have shaped modern American society. As unions became integral players in politics and economics, their role has evolved but remains relevant in advocating for worker rights today.

Related terms

Collective Bargaining: The process of negotiation between employers and a group of employees aimed at reaching agreements that regulate working conditions.

Labor Union: An organized group of workers who come together to make decisions about the work environment and negotiate with employers for better conditions, pay, and benefits.

National Labor Relations Board: An independent federal agency established by the NLRA to enforce labor laws in relation to collective bargaining and unfair labor practices.