Labor Unions Help Workers — Reading Comprehension

Many American workers joined labor unions to make their lives better. In the late 1800s, people worked in factories for long hours. Factories were often dirty and dangerous. If workers got hurt, they might lose their jobs. Pay was low and many children worked instead of going to school.

Workers knew they needed to work together. They formed unions. A union is a group of workers who join together to ask for change. Unions wanted fair pay, safer jobs, and shorter work hours. They spoke with factory owners and asked for better treatment.

Sometimes, owners would not listen. Workers would go on strike. A strike means workers stop working until their needs are met. One famous strike was the Lawrence textile strike in 1912. Workers marched and held up signs that said, "We want bread, and roses too!" This meant they wanted both fair pay and a good life.

Some leaders became famous for helping workers. One leader, Mary "Mother" Jones, said, "Pray for the dead and fight like hell for the living." She helped workers stand together. Unions gave workers a voice. When many people spoke as one, owners had to listen.

Unions helped pass new laws. These laws stopped child labor and made jobs safer. Today, many workers still join unions to protect their rights. Unions show that people can solve problems if they work together.

Interesting Fact: The first Labor Day parade was held in New York City in 1882 to celebrate workers and unions.

Why did workers join unions?

What is a strike?

Which leader helped workers in unions?

Why did workers hold signs saying 'bread and roses'?

What did unions help pass?

How did unions help workers?

Labor unions still help workers today.

What is a factory?