Question

Name some similarities between KOL and IWW?

Answer 1

KOL or knights of labour and IWW ( Industrial Workers of the World) were two of the labour unions that emerged in the beginning of twentieth century to protect the interests of the workers like fair working hours, safe and hygienic work conditions, higher and just wages among the others.

KOL which was found in late nineteenth century had both skilled as well as unskilled workers among its workmen. This union included all workers in an industry regardless of the trades. It had diversity in its structure with workers of both genders and all races constituted it. KOL did not use strikes as a mode of protest and beileved in protection of the interests of its workers thorugh arbitration.

IWW was founded in 1905 and included both skilled as well as unskilled workers from particular industries, later being in prominence. Most of them were immigrants who were relatively raw, aggressive and radical in nature. IWW was against capitalism ( Unlike the KOL) and used strikes as a mean to getting their voice heard. They organised massive strikes that brought the industry to a standstill.