Who was a prominent leader of the American labor movement in the early 20th century?

Samuel Gompers was a significant figure in the American labor movement during the early 20th century, primarily known for his role as the founder and first president of the American Federation of Labor (AFL). He advocated for skilled laborers and focused on practical improvements in labor conditions, such as better wages and shorter working hours. Gompers emphasized collective bargaining as a means to achieve these goals and was instrumental in expanding the labor movement's influence in American society during a time of rapid industrialization and the challenges that came with it.

His approach and philosophy were centered around the idea of "pure and simple unionism," which sought to promote the interests of workers within existing capitalistic structures rather than pursuing broader social reforms. This focus helped to grow the AFL into a leading force for labor rights during an era when workers faced harsh conditions in factories and mines. Gompers' leadership helped shape the direction of American labor, advocating for the rights of workers and leaving a lasting legacy that influenced future generations of labor organizers and workers' movements.