Labor Leader Samuel Gompers in Historic Portrait

This photograph captures Samuel Gompers, a pivotal figure in American labor history, during his active years in labor leadership. Taken by the Bain News Service between 1915 and 1920, it serves as a visual record of a man who dedicated his life to advocating for the rights of workers. Gompers co-founded the American Federation of Labor (AFL) in 1886 and served as its president for almost four decades. Under his leadership, the AFL focused on skilled laborers and fought for better wages, shorter hours, and safer working conditions, laying the groundwork for many labor protections we see today.

Gompers was known for his practical approach to labor issues, emphasizing negotiation over strikes. His strategies shaped labor relations in the United States, helping to elevate the labor movement in a period marked by industrialization and a growing workforce. The early 20th century was a transformative era for labor rights, with Gompers at the forefront of advocating for collective bargaining and workers rights. This image not only represents Gompers himself but also encapsulates the broader labor movement, reflecting the struggles and achievements of American workers during a critical time in history.