PBS
Unions Today
Three scenarios that examine the role of unions in the fast-food industry and pro sports are used to launch a discussion of present-day union influence.
ProCon
Cuba Embargo
President John F. Kennedy bought 1,200 Cuban cigars the night before he enacted the Cuban trade embargo in 1962. Should the United States maintain the embargo? Using the website, pupils explore the topic to prepare for a class debate or...
Library of Economics and Liberty
Concise Encyclopedia of Economics: Labor Unions
A brief history, structure, and description of the impact of labor unions in America.
Social Studies Help Center
Social Studies Help Center: American Government, Unionism Friend or Foe?
This site highlights the conflicting points of view within the government of labor unionizing. Focuses on pro and anti union legislation througout history and the attempt to balance workers rights with economic success.
Fact Monster
Fact Monster: International Ladies Garment Workers Union
Due to the strife incurred by garment workers at the turn of the century, the International Ladies Garment Workers Union (ILGWU) was formed. Read about its history and its relevancy in the 21st century.
National Women’s History Museum
National Women's History Museum: Mary Harris Jones
Female labor activist "Mother Jones" was a self-proclaimed "hell-raiser" in the cause of economic justice.
Chicago History Museum
Encyclopedia of Chicago: Railroad Strike of 1877
This article from the Encyclopedia of Chicago explains how a strike by railroad workers in West Virginia eventually made its way to Chicago and was taken up by workers from many industries. See how city officials resolved this general...
Library of Congress
Loc: America at the Turn of the Century
A short report on America by 1900: "..the American nation had established itself as a world power. The West was Won. The frontier -- the great fact of 300 years of American history -- was no more."