American Federation of Labor (AFL): Skilled Laborers Union

The American Federation of Labor (AFL), established in 1886, focused on representing skilled laborers with a pragmatic approach, distinguishing itself from the more inclusive Knights of Labor.

The American Federation of Labor (AFL) was an influential labor union in the United States, founded in 1886. It primarily represented skilled laborers and emphasized collective bargaining to achieve its goals. The AFL adopted a more selective and pragmatic approach compared to other labor organizations of its time, notably the Knights of Labor.

Historic Context

Formation and Founding Members

The AFL was established on December 8, 1886, in Columbus, Ohio. It was formed as a federation of various craft unions, each representing specific trades or skills. Key figures in its formation included Samuel Gompers, Adolph Strasser, and Peter J. McGuire. Samuel Gompers, who became the AFL’s longest-serving president, was instrumental in shaping its strategies and policies.

Early Goals and Objectives

The AFL set out to secure better wages, hours, and working conditions for its members through collective bargaining and strikes. It focused on practical economic gains rather than broad social reforms. In stark contrast to the Knights of Labor, which accepted both skilled and unskilled workers, the AFL restricted its membership to skilled workers, believing that this group had greater bargaining power.

Organizational Structure

Federation of Craft Unions

The AFL operated as a federation of national craft unions, each maintaining its independence while cooperating on broader labor issues. This structure allowed the AFL to harness the specialized skills and bargaining power of each member union.

Leadership and Representation

The leadership of the AFL consisted of union leaders from its member organizations. The General Executive Board, headed by the president, was responsible for overall policy and direction. Affiliates sent delegates to the annual convention, where major decisions and policies were debated and approved.

Key Achievements and Influence

Collective Bargaining Successes

The AFL successfully negotiated numerous collective bargaining agreements, securing significant improvements in wages, hours, and working conditions for its members. These successes helped consolidate its position as a leading labor organization in the United States.

Political Influence

Although primarily focused on economic issues, the AFL did engage in political activities. It supported labor-friendly legislation and politicians, including advocating for the establishment of the eight-hour workday and child labor laws.

Comparison with the Knights of Labor

Approach and Membership

While the Knights of Labor aimed for a broad inclusive membership, involving both skilled and unskilled workers, the AFL’s strategy was more exclusive, focusing on skilled laborers. This selective approach allowed the AFL to wield greater bargaining power and achieve more targeted economic goals.

Pragmatism vs. Idealism

The Knights of Labor were idealistic, advocating for broad social reforms and an overarching vision of worker solidarity. In contrast, the AFL was pragmatic, concentrating on tangible economic benefits for its members through collective bargaining and incremental improvements.

FAQs

What is the Purpose of the AFL?

The primary purpose of the AFL was to advance the interests of skilled laborers through collective bargaining and negotiations, aiming for better wages, working conditions, and labor rights.

How Did the AFL Differ from Other Unions?

The AFL focused on skilled laborers, unlike other unions like the Knights of Labor, which included both skilled and unskilled workers. The AFL’s pragmatic approach contrasted with the idealistic goals of other labor organizations.

What Were the Major Achievements of the AFL?

Major achievements of the AFL included the successful negotiation of numerous collective bargaining agreements, improvements in wages and working conditions for its members, and significant political influence on labor-friendly legislation.

Summary

The American Federation of Labor (AFL), established in 1886, played a pivotal role in the American labor movement. Its focus on skilled laborers and pragmatic, economically-driven approach to labor rights made it a powerful force in achieving significant improvements in wages, hours, and working conditions. Through its persistent efforts, the AFL helped shape labor policies and set the groundwork for future labor movements in the United States.

References

1. Gompers, Samuel. “Seventy Years of Life and Labor.” E.P. Dutton & Company, 1925.
2. Dubofsky, Melvyn, and Foster Rhea Dulles. “Labor in America: A History.” Wiley-Blackwell, 2010.
3. Foner, Philip S. “History of the Labor Movement in the United States.” International Publishers, 1981.
4. Green, James R. “Death in the Haymarket: A Story of Chicago, the First Labor Movement and the Bombing that Divided Gilded Age America.” Pantheon Books, 2006.