What does the acronym AFL stand for?

The acronym AFL stands for the American Federation of Labor, which is a significant organization in the history of labor relations in the United States. Founded in 1886, the AFL was formed to unite various craft unions and promote the interests of skilled workers. It played a pivotal role in advocating for labor rights, such as better wages, working conditions, and the establishment of collective bargaining rights.

The significance of the American Federation of Labor lies in its foundational principles, which emphasized the importance of skilled labor and focused on pragmatic goals like shorter workdays and the right to unionize. The organization laid the groundwork for labor movements and unions that followed, influencing future labor legislation and practices. Understanding the role of the AFL is essential for grasping the development of labor movements in the U.S., as it highlights the organized efforts of workers to negotiate for their rights and benefits.