Samuel Gompers: Champion of American Labor, 1915

The photograph of Samuel Gompers, taken on January 22, 1915, in New York City, captures a pivotal figure in American labor history. Gompers was the founder and long-time president of the American Federation of Labor (AFL), an organization that played a crucial role in advocating for workers rights in the early 20th century. Under his leadership, the AFL championed issues such as fair wages, reasonable working hours, and the right to organize, laying the groundwork for many labor protections that workers benefit from today.

This image, taken by a Bain News Service photographer, represents not just Gompers himself but also the broader labor movement of that era. In the early 1900s, labor unions were increasingly asserting their influence, and Gompers was at the forefront, promoting the idea that organized labor could improve conditions for the working class. The photograph provides a glimpse into a time when the fight for workers rights was gaining momentum, reflecting both Gompers dedication and the collective push for social change during a transformative period in American history.