Which organization was led by Terence V. Powderly and promoted open membership for unskilled workers, women, African-Americans, and immigrants?

• A. Samuel Gompers
• B. American Federation of Labor
• C. Industrial Workers of the World
• D. Knights of Labor

Answer: (D)

Terence V. Powderly led a labor group known for its inclusive, widespread membership. Under his leadership, the Knights of Labor promoted open membership for unskilled workers, women, African-Americans, and immigrants, aiming to unite a broad cross-section of workers to push for reforms such as shorter workdays and social improvements. This inclusive approach stands in contrast to later unions that focused on skilled workers or pursued more radical, industrialist aims. Samuel Gompers’s American Federation of Labor, for example, organized mainly skilled workers and crafts, while the Industrial Workers of the World began later with a different radical creed. The Knights of Labor, with Powderly at the helm, is the organization associated with that open-membership vision.