Final answer:
The Knights of Labor began in 1869 and made significant contributions to the modern labor movement, including advocating for an eight-hour workday and the inclusion of women and minorities, though their influence waned after the Haymarket Affair.
Step-by-step explanation:
The modern labor movement in America began with several key organizations, but it was the Knights of Labor that played a pivotal role in its early development. Founded in 1869 as a secret society, the Knights of Labor emerged in the public eye in 1881 and became a leading labor union by championing both skilled and unskilled workers. They stood for worker solidarity and advocated for significant reforms, including the establishment of an eight-hour workday, improved safety conditions, and the abolition of child labor. The union was inclusive, representing women and minorities, and it gained significant membership following a successful strike against Jay Gould's Wabash Railroad in 1885. However, its association with the Haymarket Affair led to a severe decline in membership by 1889. Other unions, such as the National Labor Union (NLU) and the American Federation of Labor (AFL), also contributed to the labor movement, focusing on issues like the eight-hour workday and economic reforms.
The labor union that began the modern labor movement in America was the American Federation of Labor (AFL). Founded by Samuel Gompers in 1886, the AFL consisted of groups of skilled unions. Its main goals were to increase wages, shorten work weeks, and improve working conditions. The AFL achieved notable successes in establishing an 8-hour workday and increasing pay for its members.