The Knights of Labor was a prominent labor organization in the United States during the late 19th century that aimed to unite all workers, regardless of skill level, gender, or race, to promote social and economic reforms. Founded in 1869, the organization sought to improve labor conditions through collective bargaining, advocating for an eight-hour workday, equal pay for equal work, and the end of child labor. This organization reflects the broader themes of labor movements during the Gilded Age and the significant changes in the workforce during this period.
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The Knights of Labor were founded by Uriah Stephens and were originally a secret society aiming to protect the interests of workers.
At its peak in the mid-1880s, the Knights of Labor had over 700,000 members and was one of the largest labor organizations in the U.S.
The Knights advocated for a broad range of reforms including social justice issues, such as women's rights and the abolition of child labor.
The decline of the Knights of Labor began after their involvement in the Haymarket Riot of 1886, which tarnished their reputation and led to a decrease in membership.
The Knights of Labor were unique for their inclusivity; they allowed unskilled workers, women, and African Americans to join, which was uncommon among labor organizations at that time.
Review Questions
How did the Knights of Labor differ from other labor organizations of their time?
The Knights of Labor differed from other labor organizations like the American Federation of Labor by being inclusive of all workers regardless of skill level, gender, or race. They focused on broad social reforms alongside labor issues, advocating for an eight-hour workday, equal pay for women, and the end of child labor. This approach set them apart as they aimed not just for better working conditions but also sought to address social injustices affecting workers.
What impact did the Haymarket Riot have on the perception and influence of the Knights of Labor?
The Haymarket Riot significantly impacted the perception of the Knights of Labor by associating them with violence and radicalism. Although they were not directly involved in the riot itself, public sentiment turned against labor movements as a result of this incident. This backlash led to a decline in membership and influence for the Knights as many Americans began to fear organized labor movements were dangerous.
Evaluate how the goals and strategies of the Knights of Labor reflected broader societal changes during the Gilded Age.
The goals and strategies of the Knights of Labor reflected broader societal changes during the Gilded Age by addressing issues arising from rapid industrialization and urbanization. As more workers faced harsh conditions in factories with long hours and low wages, the Knights sought to unify these workers under a common cause for reform. Their emphasis on inclusivity mirrored changing attitudes toward labor rights and social justice. The call for reforms such as child labor laws and equal pay highlighted growing awareness about workers' rights within a changing economy marked by inequality and exploitation.
A violent confrontation between labor protesters and police in Chicago in 1886 that became a pivotal event for labor rights and the perception of labor organizations.
Collective Bargaining: The process by which workers negotiate with their employers regarding wages, hours, and working conditions, often through their unions.