1. Explain the main reasons why businesses were able to treat workers poorly before the labor movement. (1 - 2 sentences)

Answer 1

Before the labor movement, businesses were able to treat workers poorly due to a lack of legal protections and regulations, an oversupply of labor, and the prevailing belief in laissez-faire economics, which minimized government intervention in the workplace. This environment allowed employers to prioritize profits over worker welfare, often leading to long hours, low wages, and unsafe working conditions without fear of repercussions.