Question

“(1) Mechanics and workmen have their rights - no one will deny this. (2) It is also true that they are occasionally imposed upon and subjected to unfair policies by unprincipled employers for there is abundant evidence of this treatment. (3) But strikes are repulsive, unsettling, demoralizing, disorganizing; they generate bad temper, ill feeling, distrust and revenge; (4) whatever the problem facing workers, strikes are contrary to public opinion, damaging to the participants, and paralyzing to business and the people who live near and around them. (5) We must never abandon our principles as a nation in the name of profit. (6) But we must also strike a balance between the needs of the workingman and the health of our national economy and local communities.

- from the American Railroad Journal newspaper, August 4 1877

What conclusion can be drawn based on the passage?

a
Increased immigration rates resulted in higher membership rates for unions
b
The Populist Party tried to convince union members to vote for Populist candidates
c
Most laws enacted during this era were favorable for labor unions
d
Many Americans held a negative perception of labor union tactics

Answer 1

Many Americans held a negative perception of labor union tactics (option d) during the time period discussed, as seen in the description of strikes in the 1877 passage from the American Railroad Journal.

Step-by-step explanation:

The conclusion that can be drawn based on the passage from the American Railroad Journal newspaper is that many Americans held a negative perception of labor union tactics. This is evident from the passage's description of strikes as 'repulsive, unsettling, demoralizing, disorganizing' and the assertion that they are 'contrary to public opinion' and 'damaging'. The passage suggests that despite recognizing the grievances of workers, there was a strong sentiment against the methods utilized by labor unions to achieve their goals during the time period, highlighting the tension between workers' rights and the broader societal impacts of union activities.