The Knights of Labor

The Knights of Labor was a prominent American labor organization founded in 1869, aimed at uniting workers across various trades to improve working conditions, wages, and hours. Unlike earlier craft unions, it welcomed all workers, including women and African Americans, advocating for broad social reforms like an eight-hour workday and cooperative ownership. The organization used peaceful methods such as negotiations and protests. Its influence peaked in the 1880s but declined after conflicts and internal issues. Overall, it played a significant role in shaping labor rights and promoting worker solidarity in the United States.