Progressive Movement

Workplace Reforms

MAST HSUS HIS – Period 4Ms. Richardson

What is a Union?

An organized association of workers formed to protect and further their rights and interest.

Why Unions Were Needed

• Reforms were needed because of these three negative effects of industrialization:

1. Unsafe working conditions2. Low wages and long hours3. Child Labor

Early Attempts at Reform

–Workers responded to dangerous conditions by forming Labor Unions.

– Business owners saw labor unions as unfair because they prevent competition.

– The largest impact was made by organizing a strike. (Example: Homestead & Pullman Strikes)

Labor Unions • Knights of Labor

• American Federation Labor

• International Ladies Garment Workers’ Union

• United Mine WorkersIndustries Supported: Steel, textiles, coal

What Did Unions Want?

• Wanted shorter hours• Higher wages• Better working conditions (ventilation &

fire codes, bathrooms, clean water, etc.)• No child labor* • Right to strike*• Collective Bargaining*

Triangle Shirtwaist Fire

• 1911 New York City• Locked doors• 800 trapped• 146 women died• Female labor, bad

working conditions, immigrant rights, shop floor laws

Deaths from Fire

Progressive Movement Workplace Reforms

In the end, the Labor Unions had many successes 1. Improved safety conditions2. Reduced work hours3. Placed restrictions on Child Labor

Expanded Education In 1865 most children attended school for only 4

years By 1914 80% of all children (ages 5-17) were enrolled

in school