Skip to content
Portrait of Walter Reuther

Walter Reuther

(1907–1970) Trade Unionist United States

11 quotes in 86 categories

Walter Reuther was a trade unionist from the United States, best known for Citrus Industry.

Quick Facts About Walter Reuther

Born
September 1, 1907
Died
May 9, 1970
Nationality
United States
Profession
Trade Unionist
Notable works
Citrus Industry

About Walter Reuther

Walter Philip Reuther was an American leader of organized labor and civil rights activist who built the United Automobile Workers (UAW) into one of the most progressive labor unions in American history. He considered labor movements not as narrow special interest groups but as instruments to advance social justice and human rights in democratic societies. He leveraged the UAW's resources and influence to advocate for workers' rights, civil rights, women's rights, universal health care, public education, affordable housing, environmental stewardship, profit-sharing for employees, and nuclear nonproliferation around the world. He believed in Swedish-style social democracy and societal change through nonviolent civil disobedience. He cofounded the AFL-CIO in 1955 with George Meany. He survived two attempted assassinations, including one at home where he was struck by a 12-gauge shotgun blast fired through his kitchen window. He was the fourth and longest serving president of the UAW, serving from 1946 until his death in 1970.

Biography source: Wikipedia

Awards & Honors

Presidential Medal of Freedom Labor Hall of Honor Eugene V. Debs Award

Quotes by Walter Reuther