Who was a prominent leader associated with the American Federation of Labor?

• A. Eugene V. Debs
• B. Samuel Gompers
• C. Uriah S. Stephens
• D. John L. Lewis

Answer: (B)

Samuel Gompers was a prominent leader associated with the American Federation of Labor (AFL), which he helped to found in 1886. Gompers served as the organization's first president and played a pivotal role in shaping its direction and policies. He advocated for skilled workers and focused on practical goals such as higher wages, shorter hours, and better working conditions. Under his leadership, the AFL became one of the largest and most influential labor unions in the United States, emphasizing collective bargaining and the importance of trade unions in advocating for workers' rights. Gompers' approach was characterized by a strong commitment to political and economic independence for the labor movement, which set the AFL apart from other labor organizations of the time.