What is a labor union?

An organization formed in order to protect the

rights of workers

What made it difficult for labor unions to be successful during

industrialization?

- most employers were hostile towards the unions

- the government usually supported the businesses
instead of the workers
Knights of Labor:

Fought for broad social reforms like 8-hour day, end to

child labor

Generally opposed strikes

American Federation of Labor:

Fought for immediate improvements like better wages and

working conditions

Bread and Butter Unionism:

Unions that fight for basic improvements

Haymarket Riot:
A labor rally called by Chicago anarchists, the
Knights of Labor were blamed. Many died.

Homestead Strike:
Union members at a Carnegie steel plant went on
strike to protest a wage decrease. Ended union
movement in steel industry for 20 years