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The history and impact 16
American Government (GOV 310)
University of Texas at Austin
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The history and impact of the American labor movement.
The American labor movement has had a profound impact on the history of the United States. From its beginnings in the late 19th century to its current state, it has served as an important force for economic and social progress. The labor movement's struggle for better wages, safer working conditions, and more equitable treatment of workers have been integral to improving life in America.
In 1869, the National Labor Union (NLU) was founded by William Sylvis with a mission to protect worker rights through collective bargaining and negotiation with employers. This marked the beginning of organized labor in America and led directly to legislation such as The Eight-Hour Act which limited work days for government employees and eventually private sector workers as well. In 1886, this early success was followed up by a general strike called "May Day" that saw hundreds of thousands walk off their jobs all across America demanding an eight-hour day instead of ten hours or longer shifts many were expected to work at that time.
As union membership grew throughout the country so did political power; culminating in 1900 when Congress passed The Clayton Antitrust Act which provided protection from employer retaliation against union organizing efforts among other things like prohibiting anti-union discrimination within companies hiring practices or pay structures. Following World War I came another wave of strikes known collectively as “Red Summer” due mostly over issues related racial injustice & unequal pay between African Americans & White Americans who worked similar jobs but weren't receiving equal compensation due to racism prevalent throughout most industries then. This resulted not only pressure being placed upon governments both local & federal level pass laws curbing racism workplace , but also increased support both financially organizationally help Black laborers fight these injustices together white ones too since they faced same struggles regardless color skin anyhow.
By 1920s , new unions began emerging including CIO (Congress Industrial Organization), AFLCIO (American Federation Labor Congress International Organizations ), UAW (United Auto Workers) etcetera -all them focused different areas industry specific needs memberships spanned into millions ultimately making significant contributions economy entire nation no small part thanks consistent victories courts during 1930s 40s 50s 60s under leadership men women people dedicated cause improving lives those employed certain sectors something continues even today. During 1960's civil rights era push toward integration workplaces made great strides furthering agenda started before WWII – some highlights included passage Civil Rights Acts 1964 Title VII Equality Employment Opportunity 1965 Voting Rights 1966 Age Discrimination 1967 Fair Housing 1968 Equal Pay Women despite opposition conservative politicians southern states trying block these advances towards equality minority communities heartily supported movements front lines amongst protestors while hardworking rank file demonstrators labored tirelessly behind scenes bringing message justice reform everyone around world could hear see feel spirit embodied causes being championed everywhere ; many lasting changes still reverberate our culture present day
because original intent keep advancing forward never stopped it just evolved over time along way changing shape forms based unique circumstances every situation presented itself each moment passing moving closer ultimate goal freedom fairness true democracy where everyone respected accepted regardless background socioeconomics past transgressions whatever else might separate us here now seems almost reachable after years enduring pain suffering fighting win basic human dignity deservedly deserve we should proud generations those gone before us gave much secure future whole humanity alike.
All said done though main takeaway clearly remains importance having strong healthy functioning system place make sure voices unheard heard given attention need look out interest disadvantaged classes society taken seriously rather than ignored forgotten simply because lack representation higher levels decision making positions industry boards associations lobbies etc must put stop unfair business practices encourage respect value individuals contribute growth wealth prosperity overall nations planet earth stand together demand be treated fairly rightfully earn what rightly theirs sustainably benefit ourselves coming times come good bad either way move forward continue march strength numbers courage hearts minds souls achieving common goals dreams bring reality within grasp hands let ever know fight wasn’t vain nothing gained lose try again succeed carry torch legacy proud ancestors leave inheriting destiny others follow suit until ends victory!
The history and impact 16
Course: American Government (GOV 310)
University: University of Texas at Austin
