What factor contributed to the loss of membership in the AFL in 1935?

What factor contributed to the loss of membership in the AFL in 1935?

• A. Decline of industrial jobs
• B. Emergence of the CIO
• C. Increased legislation against unions
• D. Public disapproval of union activities

Answer: (B)

The emergence of the CIO, or Congress of Industrial Organizations, played a significant role in the loss of membership in the American Federation of Labor (AFL) in 1935. The CIO was established as a response to the AFL's exclusive focus on skilled workers, while the CIO aimed to organize all workers in various industries, regardless of their skill level. This broadened appeal attracted many members who felt that the AFL's policies did not adequately represent their interests. As the CIO gained traction and began organizing large-scale industrial unions—effectively bringing in a diverse range of workers—it drew members away from the AFL. The competition between the two organizations led to factionalism within the labor movement, with many workers favoring the CIO’s more inclusive approach. This shift significantly contributed to the declining membership of the AFL during that period.

The emergence of the CIO, or Congress of Industrial Organizations, played a significant role in the loss of membership in the American Federation of Labor (AFL) in 1935. The CIO was established as a response to the AFL's exclusive focus on skilled workers, while the CIO aimed to organize all workers in various industries, regardless of their skill level. This broadened appeal attracted many members who felt that the AFL's policies did not adequately represent their interests.

As the CIO gained traction and began organizing large-scale industrial unions—effectively bringing in a diverse range of workers—it drew members away from the AFL. The competition between the two organizations led to factionalism within the labor movement, with many workers favoring the CIO’s more inclusive approach. This shift significantly contributed to the declining membership of the AFL during that period.