US Labour Rights and Union Growth During WWII: Progress and Setbacks

What was the National War Labor Board (NWLB) established for?

To adjudicate in wage disputes.

What did the NWLB's wage dispute formula allow in July 1941?

A 15% cost of living increase.

How much did average industrial earnings increase during the war?

By 70%.

What was the membership growth of trade unions from 1940 to 1945?

From 8.9 million to 14.8 million.

What power was given to President Roosevelt in 1943 regarding strikes?

To seize any plant where strike action threatened war production.

What was the Smith-Connally Act?

It made it illegal to instigate strikes and required unions to give thirty days' notice of all strikes.

What effect did 'right to work' laws have on unions?

They weakened unions by preventing compulsory membership, that prevented 'closed shops'

What significant recognition did the Ford Motor Company give in 1941?

It recognized the Auto Workers Union.

What was the unemployment rate drop from June 1940 to September 1943?

From 9 million to 783,000.

What opportunities arose for previously excluded groups during the war?

Employment opportunities for young people, women, and African Americans.

What percentage of the workforce were women on aircraft assembly lines during the war?

40%.

What was the Fair Employment Practices Committee (FEPC)?

It aimed to reduce racial discrimination in employment.

What social issue persisted despite increased employment opportunities for black Americans?

Continued racial tensions and violence.

What did New Deal legislation ensure for labor rights?

That rights of labor were established in law.

What did the National Labor Relations Act (1935) guarantee?

The right to join unions and engage in collective bargaining.

What was the impact of the Wagner Act on workers?

It legally empowered workers and protected them against employer retaliation.

How much did union membership increase from 1932 to 1939?

Membership trebled from just under 2 million to 9 million.

What was a significant outcome of the CIO's inclusive approach?

Expanded union access and improved representation for previously excluded groups.

What did the Taft-Hartley Act do to union power?

Restricted union power and limited strikes.

What ongoing issues hindered labor unity?

Divisions between skilled and unskilled workers and racial/ethnic inequalities.

What was a consequence of the growth of women in the workforce?

It created tensions and limited genuine advancement due to pay inequality.