The main way in which union strikes and boycotts helped advance the interests of workers in America in the late 19th century was by giving them the power to change the laws by creating pressure in a particular industry. By striking and leading boycotts, workers and consumers were able to demonstrate how powerful their voices could be, and how they deserved a place in the decision-making process. This encouraged negotiations to take place, and allowed workers to earn more rights than they enjoyed before.