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National Labor Union Founded
The National Labor Union was one of the first major labor organizations in the United States, advocating for the eight-hour workday, improved working conditions, and the abolition of child labor. Despite its early successes, it eventually declined due to internal divisions and external opposition. -
Haymarket Affair
The Haymarket Affair was a labor protest in Chicago's Haymarket Square that turned violent when a bomb was detonated, resulting in casualties among both police officers and civilians. It led to a crackdown on labor unions and the suppression of anarchist movements in the United States. -
American Federation of Labor Founded
The American Federation of Labor (AFL) was founded as a federation of skilled trade unions, emphasizing collective bargaining and trade-specific organization. Led by Samuel Gompers, it became one of the most influential labor organizations in the United States. -
Sherman Silver Purchase Act
The Sherman Silver Purchase Act required the federal government to purchase silver and issue it as legal tender, aiming to alleviate the economic hardships faced by farmers and miners. However, it failed to stabilize the economy and contributed to the Panic of 1893. -
Progressive Era Begins 1890s - 1920s
The Progressive Era was a period of social and political reform aimed at addressing the problems caused by industrialization, urbanization, and political corruption. It led to the implementation of various reforms, including women's suffrage, labor rights, and consumer protection laws. -
Homestead Strike
The Homestead Strike was a violent labor dispute between the Carnegie Steel Company and the Amalgamated Association of Iron and Steel Workers. It resulted in a battle between striking workers and Pinkerton detectives, leading to multiple casualties and a setback for organized labor. -
Population Party Formed
The Populist Party, also known as the People's Party, was formed to represent the interests of farmers and laborers against the perceived dominance of corporate interests in politics. It advocated for economic reforms such as the free coinage of silver and government regulation of railroads. -
Ellis Island Opens
The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire was a tragic industrial disaster that claimed the lives of 146 garment workers, mainly young immigrant women. It sparked widespread outrage and led to reforms in workplace safety regulations and labor laws. -
Pullman Strike
The Pullman Strike was a nationwide railway strike sparked by wage cuts and poor working conditions. It paralyzed rail transportation and led to federal intervention by President Grover Cleveland, setting a precedent for government involvement in labor disputes. -
The Jungle Published
"The Jungle," written by Upton Sinclair, exposed the unsanitary and exploitative conditions in the meatpacking industry, sparking public outrage and leading to federal investigations and reforms. It highlighted the need for food safety regulations and labor protections in industrial workplaces. -
Muckrakers Expose Corruption
Muckrakers were investigative journalists who exposed corruption, social injustices, and abuses of power in American society during the Progressive Era. Their writings helped galvanize public support for reform movements and inspired government action to address societal problems -
Women's Suffrage Movement Gains Momentum
The Women's Suffrage Movement gained momentum in the early 20th century, culminating in the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920, granting women the right to vote. It marked a significant victory for the women's rights movement and expanded democratic participation in the United States. -
Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire
The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire was a tragic industrial disaster that claimed the lives of 146 garment workers, mainly young immigrant women. It sparked widespread outrage and led to reforms in workplace safety regulations and labor laws. -
Clayton Antitrust Act
The Clayton Antitrust Act strengthened existing antitrust laws and prohibited practices that stifled competition, such as price discrimination and exclusive dealing. It aimed to promote fair competition and protect small businesses from the monopolistic practices of large corporations.