Who was the leader of the Knights of Labor that worked towards transparency in the organization?

The leader of the Knights of Labor who worked towards transparency in the organization was Terence Powderly. Under his leadership, which began in the 1870s, the Knights of Labor became one of the most influential labor organizations in the United States. Powderly emphasized the importance of transparency and member involvement as a means to strengthen the union's solidarity and effectiveness. He sought to promote broader goals beyond mere economic interests, advocating for social justice, workers' rights, and the establishment of a cooperative society. This approach was significant during a time when labor movements were often secretive and facing repression from employers and government entities.

In contrast, figures like Samuel Gompers focused more on the craft union approach with the American Federation of Labor, prioritizing direct negotiations and economic benefits rather than the expansive, inclusive vision that characterized the Knights of Labor. John Mitchell and William Sylvis also played key roles in labor movements around the same period but were associated with other organizations and had different focuses compared to Powderly’s efforts within the Knights of Labor.