William M. "Big Bill" Haywood

William M. "Big Bill" Haywood was a prominent American labor leader and activist in the early 20th century. He co-founded the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), an organization advocating for industrial unionism and workers' rights. Known for his passionate and charismatic leadership, Haywood fought for better wages, working conditions, and unity among industrial workers, often supporting direct action and strikes. His activism made him a controversial figure, especially during periods of political repression. Haywood played a significant role in the labor movement’s efforts to improve conditions for workers across various industries.