When was the American Federation of Labor (AFL) first founded?

The American Federation of Labor (AFL) was founded in 1886. This marked a significant moment in labor history as the AFL aimed to unite various trade unions representing skilled workers, seeking to improve their labor conditions through collective bargaining and political action. The context surrounding its establishment came during a period of intense industrialization in the United States, which often saw workers facing difficult conditions, low wages, and long hours. The AFL focused on securing equitable wages, reasonable working hours, and safer working environments for workers, establishing itself as a pivotal force in advocating for labor rights over the following decades.