Question

Use the quote to answer the question.

“We mean to uphold the dignity of labor” –Knights of Labor

In 4-5 sentences, Did labor unions succeed in this goal in the late 1800s? Why or why not? Use examples to support your answer. Make your answer simple, coherent, and intended for 9th grade.

Answer 1

They only partly succeeded. Unions like the Knights of Labor and later the American Federation of Labor raised public awareness about workers' rights and won some gains for skilled workers, such as better pay and shorter hours. But major events—like the Haymarket Riot (1886), the Homestead Strike (1892), and the Pullman Strike (1894)—led to violent clashes and government or police support for business owners, which weakened unions. Many unskilled workers, women, and immigrants still faced low pay, long hours, and unsafe conditions. Overall, unions made important beginnings but did not fully uphold the dignity of labor for most workers in the late 1800s.