Formation of the Committee for Industrial Organization

November 9th, 1935

November 9th, 1935

Formation of the Committee for Industrial Organization
How Long Ago?

89 years, 4 months, 6 days ago

Location

Atlantic City, New Jersey, United States

Category

Social Movements & Civil Rights

People
  • Philip Murray
  • John L. Lewis
  • Richard Frankensteen
  • David Dubinsky
  • C. J. Haggerty
Links & References
Tags

Formation of the Committee for Industrial Organization

In Atlantic City, New Jersey, eight trade unions established the Committee for Industrial Organization (CIO), aiming to represent the industrial workforce within the American Federation of Labor. The CIO sought to enhance labor rights and improve working conditions through collective bargaining and organized strikes. This initiative marked a pivotal shift in labor organization tactics, as it prioritized industrial unions over craft-based unions, emphasizing solidarity among workers across various industries.

Founded by eight trade unions in Atlantic City.

Shifted focus to industrial over craft-based unions.

Sought to improve workers' rights and conditions.

Led by notable leaders like John L. Lewis.

What Happened?

The Committee for Industrial Organization (CIO) was formed in Atlantic City, New Jersey, by eight trade unions seeking to broaden the representation of industrial workers within the American Federation of Labor (AFL). Recognizing the need for a more unified approach to labor rights, the founders of the CIO aimed to challenge the traditional craft unionism that had dominated the labor landscape. This shift was particularly significant given the rapid industrialization of the United States at the time, which had created vast and often exploitative labor environments. By focusing on industrial unionism, the CIO sought to bring together workers from diverse trades and industries under a single banner, empowering them to collectively negotiate for better wages, working conditions, and job security.The establishment of the CIO heralded a new chapter in the American labor movement, as it fostered increased collaboration among previously fragmented unions. Influential leaders such as John L. Lewis played a crucial role in shaping the vision and strategy of the CIO, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and strength in numbers. The organization's formation represented not just a tactical shift in labor relations but also a philosophical one, as it underscored a commitment to worker solidarity across all sectors. The CIO quickly gained traction in the industrial sectors, leading to numerous successful strikes and agreements that significantly improved the lives of many workers.The impact of the CIO extended beyond immediate labor victories; it contributed to the broader social and political landscape by advocating for workers’ rights and influencing public policy. The CIO also fostered a greater sense of community among workers and laid the groundwork for future labor movements, including the eventual merger with the AFL in 1955. This synthesis of efforts marked a significant turning point in labor history and illustrated the evolving dynamics of workers’ rights in America.

Why Does it Matter?

The formation of the Committee for Industrial Organization is fascinating because it represented a transformative period in the American labor movement, shifting focus from craft-based organizing to inclusive industrial unionism. By promoting collaboration among various industries, the CIO laid the groundwork for stronger labor rights and collective bargaining power, impacting millions of workers. Its evolution into the Congress of Industrial Organizations further cemented the importance of industrial unions in advocating for workers' rights in the face of economic challenges.

Discover More Historic Events from November 9th

Health & Medicine

World's First Whole Eye Transplant Announced

November 9th, 2023 1 years ago

Surgeons at NYU Langone Health unveiled a groundbreaking achievement in medicine by successfully performing the world's first whole eye transplant. This innovative procedure involved the transplantation of an entire eye from a donor to a recipient, marking a significant milestone in ocular surgery. The medical team was led by Dr. Stephen J. McDonnell, who later emphasized the importance of this achievement, stating that it opens new avenues for restoring vision in patients with severe eye damage. The procedure is expected to pave the way for further advancements in eye care and transplantation techniques.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Armistice Agreement Ends Second Nagorno-Karabakh War

November 9th, 2020 4 years ago

An armistice agreement was signed by Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Russia, effectively halting six weeks of intense conflict over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. The agreement aimed to establish a ceasefire, return of territories, and a Russian peacekeeping presence. This deal followed extensive military engagements, leading to significant territorial changes and casualties in the region. The three parties involved sought to stabilize the situation and prevent further escalation of violence.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Catalonia's Non-Binding Self-Determination Consultation

November 9th, 2014 10 years ago

Catalonia held a non-binding consultation asking citizens for their opinion on whether they support becoming a state and, if so, whether they wish it to be independent. Over two million people participated, expressing varying degrees of support for self-determination. The consultation was organized by the Catalan government and was viewed as a significant moment for Catalan nationalism, despite not being officially recognized by the Spanish government.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Violence Erupts at Welikada Prison in Colombo

November 9th, 2012 12 years ago

A violent conflict unfolded between inmates and guards at Welikada Prison in Colombo, resulting in the deaths of at least 27 individuals and injuring numerous others. The situation escalated rapidly, leading to a significant security response and raising concerns about prison conditions and overcrowding. Witnesses reported chaos as inmates clashed with authorities, demanding better treatment and conditions. The authorities responded to restore order, and the incident garnered widespread media attention, sparking debates about the prison system in Sri Lanka.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Train Crash in Northern Myanmar

November 9th, 2012 12 years ago

A train carrying liquid fuel derailed in northern Myanmar, resulting in a significant fire that claimed 27 lives and injured approximately 80 individuals. The crash occurred when the train, loaded with fuel, derailed near the town of Pinlaung in Shan State. Witnesses reported seeing flames shoot into the sky as the train burst into flames, highlighting the danger associated with transporting hazardous materials.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

First National Test of Emergency Alert System

November 9th, 2011 13 years ago

The first national test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) was conducted at 2:00 p.m. EST, marking a significant moment in the evolution of emergency communication in the United States. The test was implemented by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in collaboration with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Designed to assess the readiness and reliability of the EAS, the test was broadcast across radio and television stations, reaching millions of Americans. This initiative aimed to ensure a unified alert process in case of national emergencies, reinforcing the importance of emergency preparedness in the country.

Continue Reading