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Our mission has been the protection of the wage-worker…

“Our mission has been the protection of the wage-worker, now; to increase his wages; to cut hours off the long workday, which was killing him; to improve the safety and the sanitary conditions of the workshop; to free him from the tyrannies, petty or otherwise, which served to make his existence a…” quote by Samuel Gompers
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“Our mission has been the protection of the wage-worker, now; to increase his wages; to cut hours off the long workday, which was killing him; to improve the safety and the sanitary conditions of the workshop; to free him from the tyrannies, petty or otherwise, which served to make his existence a slavery.”

Samuel Gompers

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Labor advocacy seeks higher wages, shorter hours, safer conditions, and freedom from oppressive work structures.

In simple terms: Workers deserve fair pay, safe, humane jobs.

Key Takeaway

Improving labor conditions is essential.

Themes

labor rights wages working hours safety unionism

Mood

determined urgent

Type

political activist

When to use this quote

  • factory negotiations
  • gig‑economy regulation
  • occupational health reforms

Key Concepts

industrial relations social justice

Practical Applications

  • organize collective bargaining
  • push for legislative standards

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can modern economies balance profit and worker welfare?
  • What new forms of exploitation exist today?
A Different Perspective

Higher wages may increase product costs, affecting competitiveness.

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