The Position of Management in the Late 19th Century - Article Example

On the other hand, American workers' “labor” during the 19th century wanted their status to be improved so they could have higher wages, shorter working hours, and safe working conditions. In addition to this, they wanted child labor to be abolished and labor unions to be recognized. The tactics they employed include, striking, picketing, and boycotting.

            In the case study of Pullman Strike, there are lessons we learn about the position of management concerning labor. The confrontation of the worker’s labor union as a result of strikes and boycotts by management was handled in an unprofessional manner. Management should have tried to negotiate with the labor union concerning a return-to-work formula concerning the strike, and not to have American Railway Union charged in court with contempt. Labor disputes were bound to materialize as a result of low wages and longer working hours. In the end, the labor legislation ensured that an eight-hour workday was put in place benefiting laborers, but it would be cruel to blame management because the supply of workers exceeded demand for workers, and management could have hired other workers to replace the striking workers.