Unions formed in response to unsafe working conditions, low wages, and child labor during the Industrial Revolution. Early union efforts like strikes by steel and coal workers had some success improving conditions. Major unions included the Knights of Labor, AFL, and ILGWU. The 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Fire, which killed 146 garment workers, highlighted continuing risks. Ultimately, unions achieved safer workplaces, reduced hours, child labor limits, and expanded public education.

1. Progressive
Movement
Workplace Reforms
MAST HS
US HIS – Period 4
Ms. Richardson

2. What is a Union?
An organized association
of workers formed to
protect and further their
rights and interest.

3. Why Unions Were Needed
• Reforms were needed because of these
three negative effects of
industrialization:
1. Unsafe working conditions
2. Low wages and long hours
3. Child Labor

4. Early Attempts at Reform
– Workers responded to dangerous conditions
by forming Labor Unions.
– Business owners saw labor unions as unfair
because they prevent competition.
– The largest impact was made by organizing a
strike. (Example: Homestead & Pullman
Strikes)

5. Labor Unions
• Knights of Labor
• American Federation Labor
• International Ladies Garment Workers’ Union
• United Mine Workers
Industries Supported: Steel, textiles, coal

6. What Did Unions Want?
• Wanted shorter hours
• Higher wages
• Better working conditions (ventilation &
fire codes, bathrooms, clean water, etc.)
• No child labor*
• Right to strike*
• Collective Bargaining*

7. Triangle Shirtwaist Fire
• 1911 New York City
• Locked doors
• 800 trapped
• 146 women died
• Female labor, bad
working conditions,
immigrant rights, shop
floor laws

8. Deaths from Fire

9. Progressive Movement Workplace
Reforms
In the end, the Labor Unions had many successes
1. Improved safety conditions
2. Reduced work hours
3. Placed restrictions on Child Labor
Expanded Education
 In 1865 most children attended school for only 4
years
 By 1914 80% of all children (ages 5-17) were enrolled
in school

10. Progressive Movement Workplace
Reforms
In the end, the Labor Unions had many successes
1. Improved safety conditions
2. Reduced work hours
3. Placed restrictions on Child Labor
Expanded Education
 In 1865 most children attended school for only 4
years
 By 1914 80% of all children (ages 5-17) were enrolled
in school