Labor Unions
As Industry expanded, and monopolies were formed, many workers began to feel they were not being given enough for the effort they put into the system. Monopolies, such as standard oil, lowered the already small wages of workers. In response, thousands of workers teamed together, forming trade unions. The objective of trade unions is to force employers to pay higher wages, as well as improving working conditions. A method enacted to do so were strikes. During the strike, workers refused to do their job until their demands were met, often occupying the workplace so no replacements could be hired. The businesses sometimes reacted with violence, and many workers were killed. Eventually, however, the technique gained ground, with dozens of Labor unions being formed nationwide. The violence which occurred actually initiated reforms, assisting the worker cause, while allowing the company to remain vastly profitable. Such unions are still in existence today, e.g. Teachers unions, maintaining the balance between the company and the workers who take part in it.