Question

which factor led to the growth of labor unions in the united states during the early 1900s?
a low wages paid to immigrant farm workers
b unsafe working conditions in large factories
c consumer anger over tariffs on imported goods
d increased rates of unemployment in major u.s. cities

Explanation:

To determine the factor leading to labor union growth in early 1900s US:

• Option A: Farm workers (agriculture) weren’t the primary focus of early labor unions, which centered on industrial workers.
• Option B: Large factories in the Industrial Revolution had dangerous conditions (e.g., long hours, unsafe machinery). Workers formed unions to demand safer work, fair wages, and better treatment—this directly drove union growth.
• Option C: Tariffs on imported goods relate to trade policy, not labor conditions or unionization.
• Option D: High unemployment would make workers less likely to organize (fear of job loss), so it’s not a growth driver.

Answer:

B. unsafe working conditions in large factories