The American Railway Union represented which groups?

• A. Skilled laborers
• B. Unskilled laborers
• C. Both skilled and unskilled laborers
• D. Managers and engineers

Answer: (C)

The main idea being tested is industrial unionism—the goal of uniting workers across different crafts within one industry. The American Railway Union was formed to bring together all railroad workers, not just those with a specific skilled trade. It included skilled workers like machinists and other tradespeople, along with unskilled workers such as yard laborers and common laborers. This broad approach contrasts with craft unions that organize only a single skilled trade. The ARU’s purpose was to rally all workers in the railroad industry behind common demands, which is why it represents both skilled and unskilled laborers. Managers and engineers aren’t the target membership of this union, since the focus is on workers, not management.