The Labor Movement

About

The labor movement is a social movement focused on improving workers' rights and conditions. It emerged as a response to the Industrial Revolution, advocating for better wages, safer working conditions, and the right to unionize. Key organizations like the Knights of Labor and the American Federation of Labor (AFL) played crucial roles in shaping labor history. The movement achieved significant milestones, such as the eight-hour workday and improved working conditions, through collective bargaining and strikes. The labor movement has also been integral in broader social reforms, including gender equality and workers' rights legislation. During the Great Depression, it gained momentum with the New Deal reforms, leading to a surge in union membership. The movement continues to influence modern workplace policies, emphasizing fair treatment and social justice. Despite fluctuations in union membership over time, the labor movement remains a vital force in advocating for workers' rights and promoting a more equitable society.