Question

2. The decades of the 1920s, 1930s and 1980s were either periods of growth and prosperity or decline for unions. Trace the vicissitudes of unions during these three decades by answering the following questions.

1. Was the decade of the 1920s one of prosperity or decline for unions? Explain.
2. Was the decade of the 1930s one of prosperity or decline for unions? Explain.
3. Was the decade of the 1980’s one of prosperity or decline for unions? Explain.

Answer 1

a) In 1920 mark a very bad period for the labor movement. The lack of leadership in the labor movement, lack of economic growth and anti-union sentiments of the government and employers are all the problems that the union faces. This reduced union membership and activities. The union was unable to organize strikes.

b) The great gains enjoyed by labor unions in the 1930s resulted from the union favor of the Roosevelt administration and the legislation enacted by Congress at the beginning of the New Deal. The National Industrial Recovery Act has been enacted for collective bargaining.

c) The year 1980 was a total setback for the union movement. Strike rates fell and union strength declined. The power of the union collapsed during President Reagan's tenure. Adapting the wage. Employment contracts fell from 9.8% to 1.2%.