Labor Unions & Big Business

the Knights of Labor

a. A broadbased labor organization, founded in 1860 by Philadelphia garment cutters.

b. This organization was significant because it allowed anyone to join and they tried to get away from the future they saw in industrialism by making alliances with all producers that would offer an alternative to profit-oriented industrial capitalism. They wanted to make a society where every man is his own boss, and own his own work.

the Haymarket riot

a. May 1, 1886, Haymarket Chicago, Rioting workers

b. There were 100,000 workers rioting for a shorter work day to decrease the unemployment rate. Police were sent to prevent disorder, especialy at the huge McCormick plant. There was a fight days later where the police shot and killed 2 unionists and wonded several others. This all led up to the riot at Haymarket Square, to riot against police brutality.

the American Federation of Labor

a. 1886, led by Samuel Gompers

b. They pressed fo r concrete goals of higher wages, shorter hours and the right to bargain collectively. They accepted the industrailism but only if their demands were in concederation.

Samuel Gompers

a. A pragmatic and opportunistic immigrant, who also led the Cigar Makers' Union.

b. He led the AFI to new hights and many many people joined because of him.

the Homestead strike

a.

b.

the Pullman strike

a. 1894, Pullman Place Car Company: Chicago, Workers from the company.

b. Led by Eugene V. Debs, to protest against the wage cuts and fireing of employes.

Eugene V. Debs

a. Young, charismatic organizer of the Pullman strike.

b. Spent tim ein jail for defying the court injunction.

the Industrial Workers of the World

a. Colorado, 1905, miners formed IWW

b. Were like the Knights, but used violence and sabotage. THey wanted to "seize and control the american industries." Led by William D. Haywood.