First United States Labor Day Parade 1882, Union Square

A Labor Day Look at the Future of Work

If computers endanger the hard-won gains of the labor movement, do we need a new way of addressing tech-driven income inequality?
An older female worker uses a machine to make a product

The Invention of Retirement

Retirement as a mass phenomenon didn’t start as a way for older people to enjoy themselves.
Chicago teachers striking

The Rise of Teachers’ Unions

Teachers' unions have been an important force in America since the 1950s.
Socialists in Union Square, N.Y.C. May 1, 1912

How Labor Lost May Day

At the turn of the century, May 1 was a time for radical labor protests. During WWI, May Day was replaced by the more nationalistic Labor Day.
A sleeping car porter employed by the Pullman Company at Union Station in Chicago, Illinois.

The Historic Achievement of the Pullman Porter’s Union

The achievements of the Pullman Porter's Union were a significant civil rights victory for both U.S. labor and the civil liberties of African-Americans. 
"Men with sign "International Ladies' Garment Workers' Union""

Why We Should Care About the Death of Labor Unions

Labor unions nationwide may be weakened by the Supreme Court. But unions have been instrumental in protecting the interests of underrepresented groups.
A man is talking while his assistant takes notes.

Why Is Clerical Work Women’s Work?

As office jobs increased in the early 20th century, so did the distinction between men and women appropriate employment.
People standing in the office and working together on computer.

When Companies Try to Socialize Their Employees

Recreational facilities were introduced by employers to encourage employee loyalty and instill within them certain middle-class values.
Smiling waitress making minimum wage.

How Easy is it for Minimum-Wage Workers to Get a Raise?

The minimum-wage debate has been a long point of interest for business owners and labor economists.
Row of workers at their desks

How Temp Jobs Changed Everything

Temporary employment, popularly known as temp jobs, skyrocketed in the 1990s. A look at its dramatic impact on the labor market.