Knights of Labor

The Knights of Labor was a significant labor organization in the United States during the late 19th century. Founded in 1869, it aimed to unite workers across different trades, promote fair wages, better working conditions, and an eight-hour workday. Unlike unions that focused on specific crafts, the Knights sought broad social reforms, including cooperation and equal rights for all workers, regardless of skill level, race, or gender. Their inclusive approach and advocacy for worker empowerment made them one of the largest and most influential labor groups of their time, advocating for social and economic reforms to improve workers' lives.