Question

If you were an American worker in the 1800s, what would you do to improve your situation?
Check any boxes that you agree with.

demand higher wages

join forces with other employees

try to get into a skilled trade

try to find a better job

Answer 1

[x] demand higher wages — workers organized strikes and petitions to push for pay increases and shorter hours.

[x] join forces with other employees — early labor unions and mutual aid societies (e.g., Knights of Labor, craft unions) formed to gain collective bargaining power.

[x] try to get into a skilled trade — apprenticeships and learning a craft could lead to higher pay and more job security.

[x] try to find a better job — switching employers, moving to growing industries or regions, or taking different work were common ways to improve one’s situation.