The Knights of Labor, originally a fraternal order of tailors, was established in Philadelphia around 1869 by Uriah Smith Stevens. Known formally as The Noble Order of the Knights of Labor, this organization quickly transformed into a national labor union. At its peak in the mid-1880s, it boasted more than 700,000 members from various occupational fields. Despite its significant influence during its peak, the Knights of Labor experienced a rapid decline following a national backlash against labor agitators, leading to its collapse in 1893.
Historical Context
Founding and Early Years
- Origins: The Knights of Labor began in 1869 as a secret society formed by a small group of tailors in Philadelphia, initiated by Uriah Smith Stevens.
- Growth: Initially, the organization’s secrecy was meant to protect its members from employer retaliation. Gradually, it transitioned into a more open and inclusive labor union welcoming workers from diverse occupations and industries.
Peak Influence
- Membership Surge: By the mid-1880s, the Knights of Labor had grown significantly, encompassing more than 700,000 members, which included a wide spectrum of workers from various trades and industries.
- Goals and Advocacy: The organization championed an eight-hour workday, equal pay for equal work, and the abolition of child labor. They also advocated for the establishment of cooperatives and broader social reforms.
Decline and Dissolution
- Haymarket Affair: The public reaction to labor strikes and events like the Haymarket Affair in 1886, which was a peaceful rally turned violent, resulted in a significant backlash against labor organizations, including the Knights of Labor.
- Internal Struggles: The Knights also faced internal divisions and criticism for their inclusive approach, which included skilled and unskilled workers, and for their political engagement.
- Final Collapse: By 1893, due to external pressures and internal conflicts, the organization had substantially diminished and could no longer influence the labor movement effectively.
Contributions and Legacy
Major Accomplishments
- Labor Rights Advocacy: The Knights of Labor played a pivotal role in advocating for important labor rights, setting the groundwork for future labor movements in the United States.
- Inclusivity: Unlike many of the labor unions at that time, the Knights of Labor were relatively inclusive, promoting solidarity among workers regardless of skill level, race, or gender.
Historical Significance
- Pioneering Labor Union: As one of the first national labor unions in the United States, the Knights of Labor set a precedent for later labor organizations.
- Impact on Legislation: The organization’s advocacy efforts helped drive early labor legislation and highlighted the need for systemic changes in labor laws.
Related Terms
- AFL (American Federation of Labor): Established in 1886, this organization focused on skilled laborers and operated with a more exclusive and pragmatic approach compared to the Knights of Labor.
- Haymarket Affair: A significant event in 1886 that involved a labor rally in Chicago, which turned violent and negatively impacted public perception of labor unions.
- Labor Day: National holiday in the United States established to honor the contributions of the labor movement, influenced in part by the efforts of organizations like the Knights of Labor.
FAQs
What was the main goal of the Knights of Labor?
The main goals of the Knights of Labor included securing an eight-hour workday, ensuring equal pay for equal work, abolishing child labor, and promoting worker-owned cooperatives.
Why did the Knights of Labor decline?
The Knights of Labor declined due to several factors, including public backlash after events like the Haymarket Affair, internal divisions, and criticisms of its broad and inclusive approach.
How did the Knights of Labor differ from later labor organizations?
The Knights of Labor were more inclusive, welcoming all types of workers, and had broader social and political goals compared to later labor organizations, like the AFL, which focused primarily on skilled labor and more specific labor reforms.
References
- Foner, Philip S. “History of the Labor Movement in the United States.” International Publishers, 1947.
- Commons, John R. et al. “History of Labour in the United States.” Macmillan, 1918.
- Grob, Gerald N. “Workers and Utopia: A Study of Ideological Conflict in the American Labor Movement, 1865-1900.” Northwestern University Press, 1961.
Summary
The Knights of Labor holds a notable place in American history as a pioneering labor organization advocating for worker rights and social reforms in the late 19th century. Established by Uriah Smith Stevens, this organization expanded rapidly but eventually declined due to external and internal challenges. Its legacy, however, continues to influence labor movements and legislation to this day.
