Massachusetts AFL-CIO Scholarship Practice Exam

What were the 'Wobblies' primarily known for?

1. Being conservative labor advocates

2. Opposing all forms of labor organization

3. Being radical unionists of the I.W.W.

4. Forming a women's labor rights organization

The correct answer is: Being radical unionists of the I.W.W.

The 'Wobblies' are primarily known as radical unionists associated with the Industrial Workers of the World (I.W.W.), which was established in 1905. This organization aimed to unite all workers, regardless of skill level, under one inclusive umbrella to promote their rights and improve their conditions. The I.W.W. was known for its revolutionary approach to labor organizing, advocating for direct action, such as strikes and boycotts, as means to achieve its goals. They sought to dismantle the capitalist system, believing that workers should control the industries in which they were employed, which distinguished them from more conservative labor groups that were often willing to negotiate with employers. In context, the other options do not accurately reflect the intent or actions of the Wobblies. While some labor advocates may lean conservative, the I.W.W. was explicitly formed to challenge the status quo in labor relations. The notion of opposing all forms of labor organization does not align with the Wobblies' mission; they were deeply committed to organizing workers. Lastly, while women's labor rights were significant during this time, the Wobblies were not specifically known for forming an organization centered solely around women's labor rights, but they did advocate for inclusivity in