Historical Dictionary of Organized Labor

Organized labor is about the collective efforts of employees to improve their economic, social, and political position. It can be studied from many different points of view―historical, economic, sociological, or legal―but it is fundamentally about the struggle for human rights and social justice. As a rule, organized labor has tried to make the world a fairer place. Even though it has only ever covered a minority of employees in most countries, its effects on their political, economic, and social systems have been generally positive. History shows that when organized labor is repressed, the whole society suffers and is made less just.

The Historical Dictionary of Organized Labor looks at the history of organized labor to see where it came from and where it has been. This is done through a chronology, an introductory essay, appendixes, a glossary of terms, and an extensive bibliography. The dictionary section has over 400 cross-referenced entries on most countries, international as well as national labor organizations, major labor unions, leaders, and other aspects of organized labor such as changes in the composition of its membership. This book is an excellent access point for students, researchers, and anyone wanting to know more about organized labor.

James C. Docherty wasan Australian federal government employee in various departments and a union member for over 20 years. He was an Honorary Research Associate with the National Centre for Australian Studies at Monash University from 1990 to 1996.

Sjaak van der Velden worked with the Historical Sample of the Netherlands from 2000 to 2007. Since then he has been working with the Socialist Party. His publications include 10 books in Dutch and numerous articles in Dutch and English.