Question 84

The excerpt above from a 1919 document reflects the views of the Industrial Workers of the World.

This document articulates a revolutionary perspective on labor and capitalism, aligning closely with the principles of the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), which advocated for the abolition of the wage system and the organization of workers.

A) American Federation of Labor

The American Federation of Labor (AFL) focused on pragmatic goals such as better wages and working conditions within the existing capitalist framework. They did not espouse the abolition of the wage system, which makes this option inconsistent with the excerpt's revolutionary tone.

B) Grangers

The Grangers primarily aimed to address the needs of farmers and agricultural workers, advocating for economic reforms related to agriculture rather than a broader revolutionary change in the wage system or capitalism. This focus diverges significantly from the sentiments expressed in the excerpt.

C) Knights of Labor

While the Knights of Labor sought to unite all workers and had some revolutionary aspirations, their approach was more moderate compared to the IWW. The specific call for the abolition of the wage system is more aligned with the IWW's ideology, thus making this option less accurate.

D) Southern Farmers' Alliance

The Southern Farmers' Alliance was focused on agrarian interests and aimed at improving the economic conditions of farmers. Their agenda did not include the abolition of the wage system or a direct challenge to capitalism as articulated in the excerpt, indicating this option is not relevant.

E) Industrial Workers of the World

The Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) explicitly sought to dismantle the wage system and viewed the working class as a revolutionary force against capitalism. The excerpt’s call for organizing workers for both immediate struggles and long-term societal change is a hallmark of IWW philosophy, making this the correct answer.

Conclusion

The correct answer, the Industrial Workers of the World, is firmly supported by the excerpt's revolutionary language advocating for the abolition of the wage system and the reorganization of production. In contrast, all other options reflect more conservative or specific interests that do not align with the broader, transformative vision presented in the text. Thus, the IWW uniquely embodies the ideals expressed in the document.