The Economics of Labor Unions and the Industrial Revolution

Miacademy & MiaPrep Learning Channel

This educational video bridges the gap between U.S. History and Economics by analyzing the labor movements of the Industrial Revolution through an economic lens. Instead of portraying the conflict merely as "heroes versus villains," the video examines the systemic forces—such as supply and demand, profit motives, and competition—that drove the decisions of both business owners and workers. It explains how urbanization created a surplus of labor that kept wages low and how workers used collective organization to disrupt revenue and force negotiations. Key themes include the definition and role of labor unions, the calculation of profit (Revenue - Costs), the impact of supply and demand on wages, and the economic cycle wherein higher worker wages can lead to increased consumer demand and job creation. The video also touches on historical context, such as the post-WWII "Golden Age" of unions and the harsh working conditions of the late 19th century. This resource is highly valuable for social studies and economics classrooms. It provides a neutral framework for understanding labor disputes, defines essential vocabulary like "collective bargaining" and "labor," and uses clear graphics to illustrate complex economic cycles. Teachers can use this video to help students move beyond memorizing dates of strikes to understanding the underlying economic incentives that shape workforce relations today.