Question

Explain how urbanization, expansion of the railways and mass production manufacturing practices influenced the rise in labor unions.

Answer 1

The emergence of Urbanization and Industrialization led to the employment of a huge number of people. Urbanization and industrialization led to mass productions and manufacturing processes which resulted in job opportunities for a huge population which attracted more and more crowds towards them. Most of the laborers were unskilled. Increase in the number of industries resulted in more people being attracted for the job. These mass production and manufacturing jobs attracted a huge population which included men, women, and children. With a vast supply of laborers the power of the owners increased. The laborers were exploited and had little or no rights. The laborers were exploited and worked in terrible work conditions. They were paid little and was forced to work continuously without rest or breaks. They had poor working conditions and was often exposed to various hazards and was provided no safety at all. Children and women were also provided no safety or proper work conditions. Children were used abundantly for works in these industries as the costs were even less and they could be exploited more.

The people wanted certain rights from the company and this led to people joining together which brought into existence labor unions. labor Unions were brought into existence in order to protect the rights and wellbeings of the employees. The labor Union insisted that the employees are provided good work condition, a better pay, breaks and rest and reduction of the job hours