Labor Story (ePub)

From the time this country began, workingmen have fought and starved and often died to better the life of the common man. The struggles of one generation have been carried on by the next. Where one group has failed-the next group has won. Gradually improvements have been granted. Gradually democracy has been strengthened.Today we enjoy the fruits of this constant struggle for human dignity. Every American child is entitled to a free public education. Citizens need not own property to vote or run for office. Most public officials are elected directly by the people. No one can be thrown into jail because he is unable to pay a debt.Child labor is illegal. Eight hours is the standard work day. Employers must pay workers a minimum wage. Safety laws must be observed. Many workers are insured against accidents on the job. Workers out of jobs receive unemployment compensation. The aged are entitled to old-age insurance. Employers may not fire workers for union activities.These conditions did not fall into our laps automatically. They were fought for. They were fought for by generations of workers who joined together in trade unions to win a better life for themselves and their children. The story of their struggles is a dramatic one-an inspiring one. It is one that all Americans should know and take pride in. The following pages tell that story.