American Federation of Labor (AFL)

The American Federation of Labor (AFL) is a national organization of labor unions in the United States, founded in 1886. It aimed to represent skilled workers and improve their wages, working conditions, and job security through collective bargaining. The AFL focused on practical issues like better pay and shorter hours, as opposed to broader political goals. Over time, it became a major force in the labor movement, emphasizing unity among trades and promoting the rights of workers across various industries. The AFL eventually merged with the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) in 1955 to form the AFL-CIO, expanding its influence.