The abbreviation "A F of L" stands for American Federation of Labor. The American Federation of Labor, commonly known as AFL, was a federation of labor unions in the United States that existed from 1886 to 1955. It was one of the first successful and influential labor organizations in the country.
The AFL was formed to represent the interests of workers in various industries and to promote their rights and improve their working conditions. It focused on advocating for economic reforms such as the eight-hour workday, better wages, and job security. The federation embraced a strategy of collective bargaining with employers, organizing strikes and boycotts when necessary to achieve its goals.
The AFL became renowned for its commitment to craft unionism, which organized workers based on their specific skills or trades. By uniting skilled workers from various industries, the AFL aimed to form a strong collective force and use the power of organized labor to negotiate with employers.
Throughout its existence, the AFL played a significant role in shaping labor laws and regulations in the United States. It worked closely with lawmakers to pass legislation that protected workers' rights, such as the National Labor Relations Act of 1935. The AFL also advocated for social security, unemployment benefits, and other welfare programs.
In 1955, the AFL merged with the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) to form the AFL-CIO, which continues to be one of the largest labor organizations in the United States.
