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United States History: Labor History

Garment Workers, Strikes, and the Triangle Factory Fire

Members of the Women's Trade Union League striking in 1910.  Founded in 1903, the WTUL proved remarkably successful in uniting women from all classes to work toward better, fairer working conditions. The organization relied largely upon the resources of its own members, never receiving more than token financial support from the American Federation of Labor (AFL) or other major organized labor groups.  Following the deadly Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in 1911, league members conducted a 4 year investigation that resulted in new workplace regulations.

Women's Trade Union League Resources (not online)
1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire online

 

General Resources