Labor in the Gilded Age - AP U.S. History

1. What was the main function of labor unions in the Gilded Age?

   To negotiate with employers for better terms. Unions served as collective bargaining agents for workers' interests.

2. What was a major criticism of the American Federation of Labor?

   It excluded unskilled workers and minorities. The AFL's narrow membership excluded many working-class people.

3. What role did anarchists play in the labor movement during the Gilded Age?

   They were involved in radical actions and influenced perceptions. Anarchist involvement hurt labor's reputation with moderate Americans.

4. What was the primary reason for the Pullman Strike?

   Wage cuts without a decrease in rent in company towns. Workers faced reduced wages while rents remained unchanged.

5. Identify a major labor-related law passed in the early 20th century.

   The Clayton Antitrust Act. This 1914 act specifically exempted unions from antitrust prosecution.

6. How did the Gilded Age labor strikes influence public policy?

   They spurred discussions on labor rights and regulations. Labor conflicts forced government to consider workplace regulation.

7. Identify a major consequence of the Haymarket Affair for labor movements.

   Increased suspicion and repression of labor activities. The bombing created lasting anti-union sentiment and government crackdowns.

8. Which sector experienced the most significant labor unrest during the Gilded Age?

   The industrial sector, including railroads and steel. Heavy industry saw the most organized labor resistance.

9. What was a key factor that led to the rise of labor unions during the Gilded Age?

   Industrialization and poor working conditions. Rapid industrial growth created dangerous, exploitative working conditions.

10. What was one effect of the Great Railroad Strike of 1877?

    It highlighted the need for better labor laws and reforms. Demonstrated the need for government regulation of labor relations.

11. Name one legislative act that aimed to limit the power of labor unions.

    The Sherman Antitrust Act. Originally anti-monopoly, it was ironically used against labor unions.

12. What was the outcome of the Haymarket Affair?

    It led to public backlash against labor unions. The bombing incident turned public opinion against organized labor.

13. What was the primary goal of labor unions during the Gilded Age?

    To improve wages, working conditions, and hours. Labor unions collectively bargained for workers' basic rights and safety.

14. Name a tactic used by labor unions to achieve their demands.

    Organizing strikes and boycotts. Work stoppages and consumer boycotts pressured employers economically.

15. Which President ordered federal troops to end the Pullman Strike?

    President Grover Cleveland. Sent federal troops to break the railway strike.

16. Who was the founder of the American Federation of Labor?

    Samuel Gompers. A key labor leader who emphasized practical 'bread and butter' unionism.

17. Which labor organization was known for its use of arbitration?

    The Knights of Labor. The Knights preferred peaceful negotiation over violent confrontation.

18. Identify one major labor strike during the Gilded Age.

    The Pullman Strike of 1894. A major railway labor dispute that involved federal intervention.

19. What was one key demand of the labor movement during the Gilded Age?

    The eight-hour workday. Workers sought to reduce the standard 10-12 hour workdays.

20. Identify one reason for the decline of the Knights of Labor.

    Association with violent strikes like the Haymarket Affair. Public blamed the Knights for radical violence they didn't organize.

21. What was a common tactic used by employers against striking workers?

    Lockouts and hiring strikebreakers. Employers used replacement workers to break union solidarity.

22. What was the common perception of labor strikes by the public during the Gilded Age?

    They were often seen as violent and disruptive. Media coverage often portrayed labor actions negatively.

23. Which organization was founded in 1869 and welcomed all workers?

    The Knights of Labor. An inclusive union that accepted both skilled and unskilled laborers.

24. What was a significant consequence of the Pullman Strike?

    It disrupted rail traffic and led to federal intervention. Federal troops were deployed to break the strike and restore order.

25. What was a common feature of company towns related to labor issues?

    Employers controlled housing and essential services. Workers became economically dependent on their employers.

26. Who was a prominent leader of the Knights of Labor?

    Terence V. Powderly. Led the Knights during their period of greatest influence.

27. Which act was aimed at breaking up monopolies but was used against labor unions?

    The Sherman Antitrust Act. Courts applied antitrust law to break up union 'conspiracies.'

28. Which event demonstrated the federal government's stance on labor disputes?

    The intervention in the Pullman Strike. Federal intervention showed government support for business over labor.

29. Which industry was primarily affected by the Homestead Strike of 1892?

    The steel industry. Carnegie's steelworks became a battleground between labor and management.

30. Which event marked the first major nationwide railroad strike?

    The Great Railroad Strike of 1877. Sparked by wage cuts, it spread across multiple railroad lines.

31. What was the primary focus of the American Federation of Labor?

    To focus on skilled workers and specific labor issues. The AFL prioritized craft-based organizing over broad inclusivity.

32. Which social movement was closely linked to labor reform during the Gilded Age?

    The Progressive Movement. Reform movement that addressed workers' rights and industrial conditions.

33. What was the primary economic system that labor unions opposed during the Gilded Age?

    Laissez-faire capitalism. Unions challenged the era's dominant free-market ideology.

34. Which group was excluded from membership in many Gilded Age labor unions?

    African Americans and women. Many unions practiced racial and gender discrimination.

35. What was the long-term impact of the labor movements of the Gilded Age?

    They laid the groundwork for future labor reforms. Gilded Age struggles established precedents for later worker protections.

36. Which labor leader advocated for 'pure and simple unionism'?

    Samuel Gompers. Focused on practical gains rather than political ideology.

37. What role did the media play during labor strikes in the Gilded Age?

    Media often portrayed strikes as violent and chaotic. Newspapers typically sided with business interests against strikers.

38. What type of workers did the American Federation of Labor primarily represent?

    Skilled workers. The AFL organized craft workers rather than all laborers.

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