Gompers, Samuel

Samuel Gompers (1850-1924) was an influential American labor leader and the founder of the American Federation of Labor (AFL). He dedicated his life to improving the working conditions, wages, and rights of workers in the United States during a time when labor struggles were prevalent. Gompers advocated for collective bargaining, which allows workers to negotiate as a group with employers. He believed in practical, incremental reforms rather than radical changes, focusing on issues like shorter workdays and better pay. His legacy is significant in shaping the labor movement and advocating for workers' rights in the United States.