World War I and World War II Flashcards
How did membership change during WWI and WWII?
The government showed willingness to intervene in the economy which was of benefit to workers. During WWI membership rose from 2.7 million in 1916 to 5 million by 1920. During WWII union membership rose from 8.9 mil in 1940 to 14.8 mil by 1945.
How did wages improve during WWI and WWII?
During WWI real wages rose 20% and during WWII with pay rise for overtime, real wages increased by 70%. Improved standard of living for workers.
How did NWLB in WWI and WWII help workers?
The NWLB in World War I recognised that unions represented workers and guaranteed their rights to join a union for no striking and cooperation. Employers introduced eight hour working days. In WWII the NWLB took control of industry from employers even though the president could control factories when strike action was threatened, introduced in 1943. A labor shortage due to growth in armed forces and ending immigration benefited workers who before had not been employed such as AAs and women.
How many workers involved in industrial action after war?
After WWI and WWII employers tried to regain their influence. In 1919 4 million workers were involved in industrial action and 1946 saw 4.5 million involved.
How did unemployment decline?
Unemployment fell during WWII from 9 mil in 1940 to 800,000 by Sept 1944. Women in work rose by 50% amd represented a third of total workforce by 1943
How did the federal government protect civil rights?
In June 1941 A Philip Randolph threatened a march of 50,000 workers to Washington and the president resolved to ban racial discrimination and set a Fair Employment Practises Committee.
