Question

Why were labor unions formed during the Progressive Era?

to dismantle trusts and monopolies
to discourage the consumption of alcohol among workers
to encourage camaraderie among employees
to help workers express their demands to employers

Answer 1

Labor unions were formed during the Progressive Era primarily **to help workers express their demands to employers**. This period, roughly from the 1890s to the 1920s, saw significant industrialization, which often led to poor working conditions, long hours, and low wages for many workers. Unions sought to organize workers to advocate for better conditions, fair treatment, and economic rights, allowing them to collectively bargain with employers. While some unions may have also had broader goals, such as addressing issues related to trusts and monopolies, their primary focus was on improving the lives of workers through collective action.