Question

Which of the following correctly describes the American Federation of Labor (AFL)? Select the two correct answers. (2 Points) It allowed all workers to join. It used strikes as a last resort. It was considered a craft union. It was formed by a group of socialists. It wanted to increase wages for its members.

Answer 1

The American Federation of Labor (AFL) was a craft union that viewed strikes as a last resort and aimed to increase wages for its members. Samuel Gompers led the union, which represented primarily skilled White male workers and was not socialist-founded.

Step-by-step explanation:

The two statements that correctly describe the American Federation of Labor (AFL) are: “It used strikes as a last resort” and “It wanted to increase wages for its members.” While the AFL, under the leadership of Samuel Gompers, did support the use of strikes, they were viewed as a last resort. The AFL had a strong focus on achieving practical improvements for its members, particularly related to wages and working conditions. By emphasizing skilled trades, the AFL was considered a craft union, primarily representing skilled White male workers, and was not open to all workers. It was not formed by socialists; rather, its foundation was rooted in a reaction against the broader inclusive policies of unions like the Knights of Labor, with the AFL focusing instead on skilled craft workers' immediate economic concerns.

Answer 2

The correct answers are:

- It used strikes as a last resort.

- It wanted to increase wages for its members.

Step-by-step explanation:

The American Federation of Labor (AFL) was a labor organization that represented the interests of workers in the United States. It was formed in 1886 and played a significant role in the American labor movement.

1) It used strikes as a last resort:

The AFL believed in using strikes as a last resort in labor disputes. They preferred to negotiate and collectively bargain with employers to achieve their goals. Strikes were seen as a tool when all other options had been exhausted.

2) It wanted to increase wages for its members:

One of the main objectives of the AFL was to improve the working conditions and increase wages for its members. The organization aimed to secure better pay and benefits through negotiations with employers, advocating for fair wages that reflected the value of labor.