Support for the Labor Unions

"A true American sentiment recognizes the dignity of labor and the fact that honor lies in honest toil. Contented labor is an element of national prosperity... Our workingmen are not asking unreasonable indulgences... They should be protected in their efforts peaceably to assert their rights when endangered by aggregated capital" (Letter to the Democratic Convention, Presidential nominee Grover Cleveland August 18, 1884). The author of the letter contends that honesty and competence are the cornerstones of American society, making labor a driving force that should be recognized and valued beyond all others. Despite complete failure of labor reform in the 1820's, the 1860's saw a revival of these values. The growth of American industrial might in the 1870's and 1880's was paralleled by the emergence of unions representing the workers. Unnatural or monotonous working positions, long working hours, child labor, and unhealthy environments resulted in the creation of labor unions. The Noble and Holy Order of the Knights of Labor, founded in 1869, grew to become the largest labor organization in the nineteenth century. They were led by Terence Powderly, who sought to bring together all wage laborers regardless of skill. He also sought reforms for women and ethnic minorities. Their membership peaked around 700,000 members, with some of their key issues being child labor opposition and demands for an eight-hour day. The most famous American union was probably the American Federation of Labor (AFL), founded in 1886 by Samuel Gompers. At its pinnacle, the union had about 1.4 million members. The AFL's working principle was "pure and simple" unionism, which sought immediate work environment improvements such as wage increases and enhanced safety within the workplace. Unlike the Knights, the union accepted the wage system and sought cooperation from employers. They were also critical of women, immigrants, and unskilled workers. They provided great support for unionists, but they also chose to limit their help to a smaller percentage. "Is it a pleasing indication of progress to see the father, the brother, and the son displaced as the bread winner by the mother, sister, and daughter?" (An AFL Perspective on Women in the Work Force, 1897). Altogether, labor unionists ultimately failed. These faiths in a contented labor force inspired only a slender minority, less than three percent, to join labor unions. Despite this small percentage, the labor movement represented the most significant and lasting response of workers to the rise of big business and the consolidation of corporate power. On September 5, 1882, some 10,000 workers assembled in New York City to participate in America's first Labor Day parade. After marching from City Hall to Union Square , the workers and their families gathered in Reservoir Park for a picnic, concert, and speeches. This first Labor Day celebration was initiated by Peter J. McGuire, a member of the American Federation of Labor.