US Labor Movements and Agrarian Reform: Knights, AFL, and Populists

What was the primary goal of the Knights of Labor?

To organize all workers into a unified labor organization and transform the economic system.

How did the Knights of Labor differ from the American Federation of Labor (AFL)?

The Knights sought broad social reform, while the AFL focused on practical goals like higher wages and better working conditions.

What was the AFL's approach to labor organization?

The AFL organized skilled workers into craft unions and worked within the capitalist system through collective bargaining.

What was a significant strength of the Knights of Labor?

Their inclusiveness and large membership base across various worker demographics.

What event contributed to the decline of the Knights of Labor?

The Haymarket Affair, which generated public fear of radicalism and anarchism.

What was a key advantage of the AFL's structure?

A more disciplined and focused organization that managed strikes strategically.

What was the National Grange of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry initially focused on?

Social and educational activities to reduce the isolation of rural life.

What economic issues led the Grange to push for reforms?

Declining crop prices, rising railroad rates, exploitative middlemen, and debt burdens.

What were 'Granger laws'?

Laws aimed at regulating railroad rates and protecting farmers from monopolistic practices.

What did the Farmers' Alliances propose as part of their reform agenda?

The subtreasury plan, free coinage of silver, graduated income tax, government ownership of railroads, and direct election of senators.

What was the significance of the People's Party in the 1892 election?

They achieved their strongest performance, winning over one million votes and carrying several western states.

What happened to the People's Party in the 1896 election?

They fused with the Democratic Party in support of William Jennings Bryan, losing their independent identity.

What was the outcome of the 1896 election for the Populists?

They were defeated by William McKinley, leading to the rapid decline of the People's Party.

What reform ideas from the People's Party were later adopted during the Progressive Era?

The income tax and direct election of senators.

What was the main focus of the Knights of Labor's vision for the economy?

To replace the wage system with a cooperative commonwealth where workers collectively own and manage enterprises.

What was the AFL's strategy for survival during economic and political repression?

To adapt and continue growing through a pragmatic approach focused on skilled trades.

How did the Grange influence state power?

It represented one of the first major efforts to use state power to regulate big business.

What characterized the structure of the Knights of Labor?

A loose structure that allowed local assemblies significant autonomy, complicating national coordination.

What was the impact of the Homestead Strike on the AFL?

It demonstrated the limits of labor power but the AFL continued to survive and adapt.