The labor and reform movements of the 19th and 20th centuries were instrumental in shaping the way that the global economy operates today. From the establishment of labor unions to the introduction of measures to increase workplace safety and wages, these movements have had a massive impact on the structure of big business and industry.
The labor movement of the late 19th century was primarily aimed at improving the working conditions of laborers and demanding better wages. This movement was influential in the establishment of labor unions and the passing of legislation to provide workers with better protection and improved wages. By forming unions and collective bargaining, workers were able to gain protection from exploitation, as well as higher wages and better working conditions.
The first major labor movement in America began in the late 19th century, with the formation of the Knights of Labor. This organization was one of the first to recognize the importance of collective bargaining, or negotiating on behalf of a group of workers, to achieve better conditions. Through their efforts, they were able to gain recognition from some employers, including the first set of laws that recognized the right of workers to organize and bargain collectively.
In addition to the labor movement, the reform movement of the late 19th century was also instrumental in improving the structure of big business and industry. This movement aimed to reduce the power of trusts and monopolies and to promote greater competition in the market. This was achieved through the passing of the Sherman Antitrust Act and other laws which prohibited unfair business practices and limited the power of large corporations.
The labor and reform movements also had an important impact on the workplace. The federal government began to recognize the importance of labor unions and passed the National Labor Relations Act in 1935. This law established the right of workers to collective bargaining and gave unions the power to negotiate directly with employers. This law helped to protect workers against unfair labor practices and ensured fair wages and working conditions.
The effects of the labor and reform movements have been far-reaching and have had a major impact on the big business and industry of today. Due to the efforts of labor unions, workers now have increased safety, better wages, and improved working conditions. The Sherman Antitrust Act and other regulations have also helped to reduce the power of large corporations, creating a more level playing field for smaller businesses to compete.
Overall, the labor and reform movements of the late 19th and early 20th centuries were instrumental in forcing changes in big business and industry. From improved working conditions to greater competition in the market, these movements have had a lasting impact on the economy and have helped to shape the structure of big business and industry as we know it today.
