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america's first labor strike
the first recorded labor strike occurred in New York in 1768 when journeymen tailors refused to work in protest of wage reductions -
The first trade union is formed
Starting with shoemakers who formed the Federal Society of Journeymen Cordwainers in Philadelphia, local craft unions emerged in cities throughout the country. They published price requirements for their work and demanded shorter work days. -
The AFL is founded
the American Federation of Labor (AFL), was founded in 1886 and was successful at negotiating wage increases for members and safety improvements for all workers. -
trade unions good for democracy
AFL and National Civic Federation promote trade agreements with employers
U.S. Industrial Commission declares trade unions good for democracy. -
Railway Labor Act
Railway Labor Act sets up procedures to settle railway labor disputes and forbids discrimination against union members -
The Fair Labor Standards Act passes
The first minimum wage and 40-hour week law was passed. It was supported by the AFL even though most union workers were earning much more than the minimum wage. -
The AFL-CIO is born
The AFL merged with another well-know union, the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO), to form the AFL-CIO. -
President John Kennedy’s order gives federal workers the right to bargain
Executive Order 10988 is a United States presidential executive order issued by President John F. Kennedy on January 17, 1962 that granted federal employees the right to collective bargaining -
The Occupational Safety and Health Act passes
The act formed the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Its goal main goal is to ensure that employers provide employees with workplaces free from known hazards. -
14 million U.S. workers belong to unions
Today, more than 60 unions throughout the country represent workers in all industries. They help workers increase their income, improve their working conditions, settle disputes with management, get training and education, and more.