Which of the following is true about the American Federation of Labor?

The statement that the American Federation of Labor (AFL) prioritized the needs of skilled laborers primarily is accurate. Founded in 1886, the AFL focused on organizing skilled workers and aimed to improve their working conditions, wages, and hours through collective bargaining. The leadership of the AFL, particularly under Samuel Gompers, believed that by concentrating on skilled workers, they could secure better negotiating power and achieve more significant gains than a broader coalition including unskilled workers.

Options that suggest inclusivity of all workers or focus on unskilled laborers do not accurately reflect the core mission of the AFL, which was selective in its membership criteria and mainly served the interests of skilled trades. Similarly, while wage increases were certainly a goal, the AFL’s emphasis was on structured approaches like collective bargaining rather than a movement specifically demanding immediate wage increases. Additionally, while the AFL had restrictions concerning membership for certain groups, it did not outright ban immigrants; some immigrant workers were included, particularly if they possessed specific skills. Thus, the choice that highlights the prioritization of skilled laborers captures the essence of the AFL’s objectives and membership composition.