The membership of the AFL was primarily composed of which type of workers?

The American Federation of Labor (AFL) was primarily composed of skilled workers, which is why choice indicating skilled workers only is correct. The AFL focused on organizing craft unions, which were groups representing workers of specific trades or crafts, such as carpenters, electricians, and plumbers. This emphasis on skilled labor was rooted in the belief that skilled workers had more bargaining power due to the specialized nature of their work, which made them less replaceable in the job market.

The organization aimed to improve the working conditions, wages, and hours for these skilled workers, distinguishing itself from other labor organizations that aimed to include all types of workers, regardless of the skill level. While women and minority workers certainly contributed to the labor movement, their representation within the AFL was limited, especially during the early years of the union. Therefore, focusing on skilled workers allows for a clearer understanding of the AFL’s primary membership demographic.