American Federation of Labor

Definition

The American Federation of Labor (AFL) was a national organization of labor unions founded in 1886 that aimed to represent skilled workers and advocate for their rights. It focused on improving wages, working conditions, and hours for its members while promoting the interests of organized labor through collective bargaining and political action.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The AFL was founded by Samuel Gompers and other labor leaders as a response to the need for organized labor representation among skilled workers.
2. The AFL focused on practical goals rather than political ideologies, emphasizing issues like better wages, safer working conditions, and shorter workdays.
3. During its early years, the AFL primarily represented craft unions, which organized workers based on specific trades or skills.
4. The AFL played a significant role in the establishment of labor laws and workers' rights through lobbying efforts and strikes, notably influencing the passage of labor legislation.
5. By the early 20th century, the AFL had grown to become one of the most powerful labor organizations in the United States, with millions of members across various trades.

Review Questions

• How did the American Federation of Labor change the landscape of organized labor in the United States during its early years?
  • The American Federation of Labor significantly changed the landscape of organized labor by uniting skilled workers under a single national organization focused on practical goals. This was a departure from previous attempts at labor organization that often included unskilled workers and broader political aims. By emphasizing collective bargaining and focusing on specific trades, the AFL helped establish a more structured approach to unionization that allowed workers to effectively negotiate better wages and working conditions.
• Discuss the main 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 for workers' rights. These included collective bargaining, where representatives negotiated directly with employers to secure better wages and working conditions. The AFL also organized strikes and protests to exert pressure on companies that resisted union demands. Furthermore, it engaged in political action by lobbying for favorable labor laws and regulations at local, state, and national levels, thereby creating a more supportive environment for organized labor.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of the American Federation of Labor on labor movements and workers' rights in contemporary society.
  • The long-term impact of the American Federation of Labor on labor movements and workers' rights is evident in contemporary society through the establishment of stronger labor laws and greater recognition of workers' rights. The AFL set important precedents for collective bargaining that are still fundamental today, shaping how unions operate and advocate for their members. Moreover, its focus on skilled labor laid the groundwork for specialized training programs and apprenticeship opportunities that benefit workers today. As a result, the principles established by the AFL continue to influence modern labor movements, emphasizing fair wages and safe working conditions.

Related terms

Collective Bargaining:

A negotiation process between employers and a group of employees aimed at establishing the terms of employment, including wages, hours, and working conditions.

Skilled Labor: Workers who have specialized training or skills, often involved in trades or professions requiring a high level of expertise.

Unionization: The process by which workers come together to form or join a union in order to collectively represent their interests and negotiate with employers.