In what year was the Wagner Act passed by Congress?

The Wagner Act, formally known as the National Labor Relations Act, was enacted in 1935. This piece of legislation played a crucial role in establishing the rights of workers to organize, engage in collective bargaining, and take collective action, including strikes. It aimed to protect labor unions and the rights of workers in the United States, marking a significant turning point in labor relations and contributing to the strength of organized labor during that era.

The timing of the Wagner Act is important as it emerged during the Great Depression, a period characterized by high unemployment and labor unrest, making the establishment of fair labor practices and workers’ rights essential for economic recovery. Understanding this context allows one to appreciate the lasting impact of the Wagner Act on labor relations in the U.S.