Curated OER
History Matters: Race and Racism at the 1886 Knights of Labor Convention
This interesting excerpt from Terence Powderly's autobiography discusses the problems he encountered as head of the Knights of Labor in terms of race relations in the unions.
Other
Encyclopedia of Arkansas: Great Southwestern Strike
Prior to the nationwide Pullman Railway Strike in 1894, railroad workers struck against rail lines controlled by Jay Gould. Read about the strike, the initial success, and eventual defeat for the workers.
Ohio History Central
Ohio History Central: Knights of Labor
Ohio History Central gives a brief summary of the actions and goals of the Knights of Labor in the last half of the 19th century. Find out about their push for improved working conditions and whether striking was advantageous or not in...
CommonLit
Common Lit: The Plea for Eight Hours
A learning module that begins with Terence Powderly's persuasive text "The Plea for Eight Hours" accompanied by guided reading questions, assessment questions, and discussion questions. The text can be printed as a PDF or assigned online...