The Historical Role of Labor Unions

Labor unions have played a crucial role in shaping the modern work environment, significantly improving the lives of workers and their families. They were instrumental in establishing the standard workweek, securing benefits like weekends, and advocating for essential rights such as Social Security and health insurance. Historically, unions contributed to a thriving middle class by ensuring fair wages that enabled families to achieve the American dream, including home ownership and higher education. However, as union membership has drastically declined from 33% in the 1950s to just 6% today, the subsequent loss of political and economic power has led to increased inequality and a diminishing middle class.