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New Hampshire enacts first 10-hour day law
In 1847, the federal government established a 10-hour work day in most north-eastern cities, beginning with New Hampshire. Also, this law allowed workers to voluntarily work more hours than 10 a day. -
New England Shoemakers Strike
This strike began when 3,000 shoemakers abandoned working to protest lack of fair pay and treatment of potential labor unions. Soon, strikes spread throughout the New England area. Protest would resolve once moderate increases in pay and labor improvements occurred. -
National Labor Union
This was the first national labor federation in the United States. This union was made up of skilled/unskilled workers and farmers. This union called on to Congress to demand 8 hour work days. The NLU was founded to pressure Congress into making labor law reforms. -
Haymarket Riot
Based in Chicago, people protested police brutality against labor strikes. Eight people died due to a bomb going off in the crowd. The protest was once peaceful, but soon turned violent. Multiple labor activists were convicted, although there was a lack of evidence. -
American Federation of Labor
This federation was made up of smaller unions who came together to grow in strength. They represented millions of retired and active workers to increase labor rights and laws. -
Homestead Strike
This was an industrial lockout/strike between strikers and private security agents. The Homestead Act is known as one of the most serious disputes in United States labor history. In the end, the union of steel workers suffered a major defeat. The union took on a significant setback in gaining steel worker rights. -
The Battle of Cripple Creek
This was a 5-month strike started by miners protesting unjust labor treatment. Work hours increased from 8 hours to 10 hours a day. Picket lines were formed. This resulted in miner owners to abandon, and ultimately lead to the victory of the miners' union. -
Norris-LaGuardia Act
This act outlawed the practice of hiring only workers who agreed to not join a union. This act also restricted federal courts from trying to prevent striking, picketing, and boycotting against employers. Worker rights significantly increased as a result of this act. -
Fair Labor Standards Act
This act established the first federal minimum wage, at a staggering $0.25 per hour. Also, an overtime pay rate was created. Child labor was significantly restricted due to this act. -
Occupational Safety and Health Act
Administered by OSHA, this act requires employers to provide work areas free of hazards. Ths act covers all 50 states and all employers in the United States and usually entails regular inspections and tests. However, this act does not cover self-employed workers.
