The Emergence of Modern Unions

The modern concept of unions began gaining traction during the early days of the US when labor strikes first appeared in 1786. The British industrial revolution is considered the birthplace of modern unions as people transitioned from rural to urban areas and became wage workers. These workers were entirely dependent on factory owners for employment, leading to the creation of the labor and capital class. Workers realized their vulnerability and formed unions as a way to collectively negotiate with business owners, despite facing opposition and crackdowns.