The Merger of AFL and CIO: Formation of the AFL-CIO on December 5, 1955

On December 5, 1955, a significant event in the history of American labor movements occurred: the merger of the American Federation of Labor (AFL) and the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) to form the AFL-CIO. This merger created the largest federation of unions in the United States, marking a pivotal moment in the labor movement.

Background

The American Federation of Labor (AFL)

• Founded: 1886
• Focus: The AFL was primarily a federation of craft unions, representing skilled workers. It emphasized collective bargaining to secure better wages, hours, and working conditions for its members.
• Leadership: Samuel Gompers was a key figure in the AFL’s early years, advocating for pragmatic approaches to labor issues.

The Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO)

• Founded: 1935
• Focus: The CIO emerged from a split within the AFL, focusing on industrial unionism. It aimed to organize all workers within an industry, regardless of their specific skills or trades.
• Leadership: John L. Lewis was a prominent leader, pushing for the inclusion of unskilled and semi-skilled workers, particularly in industries like steel, automotive, and textiles.

The Merger

Reasons for the Merger

• Decline in Membership: Both organizations faced declining membership and influence in the post-World War II era.
• Common Goals: Despite their differences, both the AFL and CIO shared common goals of improving labor conditions and increasing workers’ rights.
• Political Influence: A united front was seen as a way to enhance political influence and bargaining power with employers and the government.

The Merger Process

• Negotiations: Talks between the two organizations began in earnest in the early 1950s, with leaders like George Meany (AFL) and Walter Reuther (CIO) playing crucial roles.
• Agreement: The merger was formalized at a convention in New York City, where delegates from both organizations voted overwhelmingly in favor of unification.

Significance and Impact

• Largest Federation: The AFL-CIO became the largest federation of unions in the United States, representing millions of workers across various industries.
• Unified Labor Movement: The merger symbolized a more unified labor movement, capable of exerting greater influence on national labor policies and legislation.
• Continued Advocacy: The AFL-CIO continued to advocate for workers’ rights, fair wages, and safe working conditions, playing a significant role in shaping labor laws and policies.

Aftermath

• Leadership: George Meany became the first president of the AFL-CIO, serving until 1979. His leadership helped stabilize the new organization and set its strategic direction.
• Challenges: Despite the merger, the AFL-CIO faced challenges, including internal disputes, changes in the economy, and shifts in labor demographics.

The formation of the AFL-CIO on December 5, 1955, remains a landmark event in the history of labor in the United States, representing a strategic consolidation of power and influence within the labor movement.