What major labor organization was founded in 1869?

• A. American Federation of Labor
• B. The Knights of Labor
• C. United Mine Workers
• D. League of Revolutionary Workers

Answer: (B)

The Knights of Labor was founded in 1869 and is significant as one of the first major labor organizations in the United States. This organization was notable for its inclusive nature, welcoming not only skilled workers but also unskilled laborers, women, and African Americans, which was quite progressive for the time. The Knights of Labor aimed to promote social and economic reforms, advocating for an eight-hour workday, end to child labor, and equal pay for equal work.

The American Federation of Labor, which is often confused with the Knights of Labor, was established later, in 1886, and focused more on skilled laborers and specific trades. The United Mine Workers and the League of Revolutionary Workers also emerged later in the labor movement and thus were not founded in 1869. Therefore, the Knights of Labor stands out as the correct answer for the year of its founding.