Final answer:
Samuel Gompers was the first leader of the American Federation of Labor (AFL), leading the organization from its founding in 1886 until his death in 1924, with a focus on economic gains for its members.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first leader of the American Federation of Labor (AFL) was Samuel Gompers, who founded the organization in 1886 and served as its head until his death in 1924, with a brief interruption. Under Gompers' leadership, the AFL prioritized economic gains and worked to represent all unions on matters of federal legislation affecting laborers, such as advocating for the eight-hour workday. The AFL was known for focusing on skilled labor and employed tactics like strikes to achieve its goals, notably improving wages and working conditions. At its peak in 1914, the AFL boasted over 2 million members.