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 focused on skilled labor and advocated for better wages, hours, and working conditions through collective bargaining and strikes. The AFL played a significant role in the labor movement during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, shaping the relationship between workers and employers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The AFL was formed as a response to the increasing need for organized labor to advocate for workers' rights during the industrialization of the United States.
2. Samuel Gompers was one of the key founders and served as the president of the AFL for many years, emphasizing practical goals over political ideals.
3. The AFL primarily focused on skilled workers, organizing unions based on specific trades and crafts rather than uniting all workers across industries.
4. Through strikes and negotiations, the AFL achieved significant victories for workers, including shorter workdays and higher wages, especially during times of economic growth.
5. The AFL's approach contrasted with more radical groups like the Industrial Workers of the World, as it aimed for incremental changes rather than complete societal overhaul.

Review Questions

• How did the American Federation of Labor differ from earlier labor organizations like the Knights of Labor?
  • The American Federation of Labor distinguished itself from earlier organizations like the Knights of Labor by focusing specifically on skilled workers and advocating for their rights through collective bargaining rather than broad social reforms. While the Knights sought to unite all workers regardless of skill level, often pushing for sweeping changes, the AFL emphasized practical improvements like better wages and working conditions. This targeted approach allowed the AFL to effectively negotiate specific benefits for its members.
• Evaluate the impact of Samuel Gompers' leadership on the growth and success of the American Federation of Labor.
  • Samuel Gompers' leadership was pivotal in shaping the American Federation of Labor into a powerful force in the labor movement. He focused on pragmatic goals such as higher wages and shorter workdays, which appealed to skilled workers seeking immediate improvements. Gompers promoted collective bargaining as a means to achieve these goals, helping to increase membership and influence. Under his guidance, the AFL successfully navigated challenges posed by employers and government opposition, establishing itself as a key player in labor relations.
• Analyze how the American Federation of Labor's strategies influenced labor movements in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
  • The American Federation of Labor's strategies significantly influenced labor movements by establishing a model for organized labor that emphasized collective bargaining and practical gains. By focusing on skilled workers and negotiating directly with employers, the AFL set a precedent for how unions could effectively advocate for worker rights. Their successes in securing better wages and working conditions inspired other unions to adopt similar tactics. However, their exclusionary practices also highlighted divisions within the labor movement, leading to tensions with more radical groups like the Industrial Workers of the World, ultimately shaping the trajectory of labor activism in America.

Related terms

Collective Bargaining: The process where employers and unions negotiate the terms of employment, including wages, hours, and working conditions.

Industrial Workers of the World: A radical labor union formed in 1905 that aimed to unite all workers under one organization to promote social revolution.

Knights of Labor: An early labor organization founded in 1869 that sought to unite all workers and promote social reforms, but was less focused on skilled labor compared to the AFL.