The Trade Union Woman

Alice Henry

• Publisher: Science & Technology Publishing
• Year: 2025
• eBook ISBN: 9782528101346
• Topic: Economics
• Subtopic: Labour Economics
• Index: Economics

The Trade Union Woman by Alice Henry is a pioneering work first published in 1915 that explores the vital role of women in the American labor movement during the early twentieth century. Drawing on her extensive experience as a journalist, labor activist, and member of the Women's Trade Union League, Henry provides a detailed and passionate account of the struggles, achievements, and aspirations of working women as they organized for better wages, improved working conditions, and greater social and political rights. The book delves into the history of women's participation in trade unions, highlighting key strikes, notable leaders, and the unique challenges faced by women workers in various industries, including textiles, garment manufacturing, and domestic service. Henry examines the intersection of gender and class, emphasizing how women's economic independence and collective action were essential to both the labor movement and the broader fight for women's suffrage and equality. She discusses the formation and growth of the Women's Trade Union League, its campaigns for protective legislation, and its efforts to bridge the gap between middle-class reformers and working-class women. Through vivid case studies and personal stories, Henry illustrates the courage and resilience of women who defied social norms and employer opposition to demand justice and dignity in the workplace. The Trade Union Woman also addresses the broader social and economic context of the time, including the impact of industrialization, immigration, and urbanization on women's labor. Henry advocates for solidarity among all workers and calls for continued progress toward fair labor standards, education, and political representation for women. The book remains a significant historical document, offering insight into the early labor and feminist movements and serving as an inspiring testament to the power of collective action and the enduring quest for social justice.

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