Industrialization and Labor Unions-American Studies-Content Statement 9

What major societal change increased the demand for workers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries?

The rise of industrialization.

How did industrialization impact migration within the United States?

Americans migrated to industrial centers to take jobs.

What was one significant reason immigrants came to the United States during industrialization?

The demand for workers in industrial centers.

What type of government policy allowed monopolies and trusts to form during industrialization?

Laissez-faire policies

What was a primary economic effect of industrialization on labor demand?

It increased the demand for workers in industrial centers.

How did industrialization affect urban areas in the late 19th century?

Urban areas grew rapidly due to migration and immigration for industrial jobs.

What role did laissez-faire policies play in shaping the economy during industrialization?

They allowed businesses to operate without significant government interference, enabling the growth of monopolies and trusts.

Growth of labor unions

Unregulated working conditions and conflicts between corporations and workers.

What were the main workplace reforms advocated by labor unions?

Shorter work days, increased pay, safer working conditions, and restrictions on child labor.

How did labor unions seek to negotiate better conditions for workers?

Through tactics like collective bargaining, strikes, and boycotts.

Purpose of collective bargaining

To negotiate contracts between workers and employers to improve working conditions and wages.

Purpose of strikes

To pressure employers by stopping work until demands were met.

Why did labor unions use boycotts as a tactic?

To discourage the public from supporting businesses that refused to improve working conditions.

What did labor unions often face from business owners during industrialization?

Labor unions often faced violent backlash from business owners during industrialization.

How did government involvement sometimes play a role in labor disputes?

The government often intervened to suppress strikes or support business owners.

Business owners' resistance to labor unions

To maintain profits and control over the workforce.

What impact did violent conflicts between corporations and labor unions have on the labor movement?

They highlighted the need for workplace reforms and government regulation.

Monopoly

A company that controls an entire industry, eliminating competition.

Trust

A group of corporations controlled by a single board of directors to reduce competition and increase profits.

Laissez-faire meaning in industrialization

A policy of minimal government interference in business operations.

What was one significant goal of labor unions regarding child labor?

To implement restrictions or bans on child labor.

Why did labor unions advocate for shorter work days?

To improve workers' quality of life and reduce exhaustion.

How did labor unions aim to ensure safer working conditions?

By demanding workplace safety standards and regulations.

What lasting effect did labor unions have on labor laws in the U.S.?

They contributed to the establishment of laws protecting workers' rights and safety.

How did industrialization and labor unions collectively shape modern workplaces?

They led to reforms such as regulated work hours, safer conditions, and fair wages.