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1869 - Knights of Labor Established
The Knights of Labor was one of the first major labor organizations in the U.S. Unlike other groups, it accepted workers of all skill levels, including women and minorities. The Knights of Labor advocated for safer workplaces, child labor laws, and equal pay, later becoming a powerful force in labor activism. -
1866 - National Labor Union founded
The National Labor Union was the first national labor federation in the U.S. This federation fought for an 8-hour workday and better conditions for workers. Although it died down in 1873, it influenced future labor organizations. -
1886 - American Federation of Labor (AFL) Formed
The American Federation of Labor was led by Samuel Gompers. The AFL focused on skilled workers and collective bargaining to secure better working conditions and wages. It became one of the most powerful labor unions in the country. -
1886 - Haymarket Affair in Chicago
During labor protests supporting an 8-hour workday, a bomb exploded, leading to violence between workers and police. This resulted in strong anti-union sentiment, but it also inspired future labor movements. -
1894 - Pullman Strike
The Pullman Company cut wages but did not lower rents in company-owned housing, causing railroad workers to go on strike. The federal government sent troops to break the strike, leading to violence and deaths. This event highlighted the role of the government in labor conflicts. -
1911 - Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire
The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in New York City killed about 146 workers, mostly young women, because the doors were locked and there were very few safety exits. This tragedy led to major workplace safety reforms and new labor laws. -
1935 - National Labor Relations Act (Wagner Act)
The Wagner Act gave workers the legal right to negotiate with employers and form unions. It also created the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to handle labor disputes. -
1938 - Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
The Fair Labor Standards Act set the first national minimum wage, required overtime pay for long work hours, and limited child labor. It remains one of the most important labor laws in the United States. -
1955 - AFL and CIO Merger
In 1955, two major labor organizations, the AFL and the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO), combined to form the AFL-CIO, creating a powerful labor federation that represented millions of workers. -
1981 - PATCO Strike
In 1981, air traffic controllers went on strike for better pay and working conditions. President Ronald Reagan responded by firing over 11,000 striking workers, which weakened union power in the following decades.