Passage OneIn the late 1860's, industry in America grew rapidly. More factories meant more jobs. But working conditions were dangerous. Employees were forced to work as many as 16 hours a day in hot, dirty rooms. Children often worked alongside adults. Wages were usually very low.Workers tried to improve conditions by forming unions. One of the first important unions was the Knights of Labor, formed in 1869. Blacks and women were welcomed as members. The Knights of Labor wanted an 8-hour workday, higher wages, and better working conditions. The union called for an end to the employment of children under age 14.Together with other unions, the Knights of Labor tried to make changes through collective bargaining. Union leaders would meet with employers and talk. When collective bargaining failed, the unions resorted to strikes. When some strikes that the unions held turned violent, public opinion turned against them. Many members left the Knights of Labor, and by 1890 the union had died out.But other unions survived. The AF of L, American Federation of Labor, was formed in 1881. It continued to push for the goals set by the Knights of Labor. However, most federal laws protecting workers and outlawing child labor were not passed until the 1930's.31. According to the passage, the Knights of Labor wanted all of the following EXCEPT ______.
- A an 8-hour workday
- B higher wages
- C improving working conditions in the factories
- D an increase in the employment of small children