Reactions to Industrialization, 1750-1900

Ethan Taylor
7 min read
#AP World History: Modern - Industrialization & Reactions (1750-1900) 🚀
Hey! Let's get you prepped for the exam with a super-focused review of industrialization and its impacts. We'll break down everything you need to know, making sure you're not just memorizing, but understanding.
#1. The Rise of Labor Unions ✊
This is a huge topic! Expect to see questions about labor movements and their effects.
Industrialization created major problems for workers, leading to the rise of labor unions. Think of it like this: workers realized they were stronger together than alone.
#1.1. Why Unions Formed:
- Poor Working Conditions: Dangerous factories, long hours, and low pay were the norm.
- Income Inequality: Huge gap between factory owners and workers.
- Lack of Bargaining Power: Individual workers had little influence; unions provided collective strength.
Labor unions aimed to improve workers' rights, pay, and working conditions through collective action, like strikes. Remember, they weren't just asking nicely—they were demanding change.
#1.2. Key Achievements of Labor Unions:
- Shorter Work Hours: Reduced workdays (e.g., 10 to 8 hours). ⏱️
- Improved Working Conditions: Safer workplaces, better treatment, and regulations to protect workers.
- Increased Wages & Welfare: Higher pay through collective bargaining, plus benefits like pensions and healthcare (especially in Germany). 💰
- Advocated for Workers' Rights: Right to form unions, bargain collectively, and strike.
- Improved Job Security: Protection against unfair dismissal.
- Expanded Suffrage: More men (even those without land) could vote. 🗳️
Remember WAGES to recall the main goals of labor unions:
- Working conditions
- Advocating for rights
- Gains in wages
- Expande...

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