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. It primarily represented skilled workers and focused on collective bargaining to secure better wages, working conditions, and labor rights. The AFL played a crucial role in the labor movements of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, advocating for the rights and interests of workers across various industries.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The AFL was founded by Samuel Gompers and other labor leaders who sought to create a unified organization for skilled workers.
2. It emphasized practical goals such as higher wages, shorter workdays, and safer working conditions, rather than political ideologies.
3. The AFL avoided including unskilled workers and focused on organizing craft unions that represented skilled trades.
4. Throughout its history, the AFL played a key role in strikes and labor actions that led to significant improvements in labor rights during the Progressive Era.
5. In 1955, the AFL merged with the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) to form the AFL-CIO, which continues to represent millions of workers today.

Review Questions

• How did the American Federation of Labor shape labor movements in the late 19th century?
  • The American Federation of Labor significantly shaped labor movements by organizing skilled workers and advocating for collective bargaining. This approach led to successful negotiations for better wages and working conditions, setting a precedent for future labor actions. The AFL's focus on practical goals helped unite workers under common interests, which ultimately strengthened the labor movement during this transformative period.
• Discuss the strategies employed by the American Federation of Labor to achieve its goals for workers' rights.
  • The American Federation of Labor employed several key strategies to achieve its goals, including collective bargaining, organizing strikes, and fostering solidarity among various craft unions. By focusing on skilled workers and practical improvements rather than broader political agendas, the AFL was able to effectively negotiate with employers. These tactics not only improved working conditions for its members but also laid the groundwork for future labor rights advancements.
• Evaluate the impact of the merger between the American Federation of Labor and the Congress of Industrial Organizations on labor rights in America.
  • The merger between the American Federation of Labor and the Congress of Industrial Organizations in 1955 created a more unified and powerful labor movement in America. This consolidation allowed for greater representation of both skilled and unskilled workers across various industries, enhancing the bargaining power of unions. The combined resources and membership also facilitated more effective advocacy for labor rights, resulting in significant legislative changes and protections for workers during a time of economic growth.

Related terms

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

Trade Union: An organization of workers formed to protect their rights and interests, often through collective action such as strikes and negotiations.

Craft Union: A type of trade union that represents workers with specific skills or trades, focusing on improving wages and working conditions within those crafts.