What role did trade unions play during the Industrial Revolution?

Trade unions were instrumental during the Industrial Revolution in organizing workers to advocate for improved working conditions, fair wages, and reasonable working hours. As industrialization progressed, workers faced harsh conditions, long hours, and minimal pay, prompting the need for collective action. Trade unions provided a platform for solidarity among workers, enabling them to present a united front when negotiating with employers. By banding together, workers could strengthen their bargaining power and push for reforms, such as the establishment of labor laws and safety regulations. This push for better conditions marked a significant shift in labor rights during a period characterized by rapid economic change and exploitation in the workplace. The actions of trade unions not only improved the lives of workers at the time but also laid the groundwork for future labor rights movements.