Question

question 1 of 10

which item best completes the graphic organizer to show the goals of labor unions during the progressive era?

goals of labor unions
higher wages for workers
an end to child labor
?

a. desegregation of workers
b. antitrust legislation
c. safer working conditions
d. higher taxes for business owners

Explanation:

Analyze the graphic organizer

The graphic organizer is titled "Goals of Labor Unions" during the Progressive Era. The listed goals are:

• Higher wages for workers
• An end to child labor
• ?

We need to find the option that represents another primary goal of labor unions during this period.

Evaluate the options based on historical context

During the Gilded Age and Progressive Era, the Labor Movement History shows that unions organized to protect workers from exploitation.

• Option A (Desegregation of workers): Most labor unions during this era did not actively fight for racial desegregation; many were segregated themselves.
• Option B (Antitrust legislation): While reformers fought for antitrust laws, this was primarily a legislative goal of the broader Progressive movement and government, not a direct workplace goal of labor unions.
• Option C (Safer working conditions): Industrial workplaces were incredibly dangerous, with frequent accidents and no safety regulations. Securing safer working conditions, alongside shorter hours and higher wages, was a core, direct objective of Gilded Age Labor and Progressive Era unions.
• Option D (Higher taxes for business owners): Tax policy was not a direct organizing goal of labor unions.

Select the best fit

Improving workplace safety directly aligns with the other listed goals of improving the immediate working lives of laborers. Therefore, "Safer working conditions" is the correct choice.

Answer:

• (A) Desegregation of workers
• (B) Antitrust legislation
• (C) Safer working conditions (Correct answer)
• (D) Higher taxes for business owners