John L. Lewis

Date of Birth: February 12, 1880

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: June 11, 1969

Biography

John L. Lewis was a prominent American labor leader who played a crucial role in the labor movement in the United States during the first half of the 20th century. He was born on February 12, 1880, in Cleveland, Iowa, to Welsh immigrant parents. Lewis is best known for his long tenure as president of the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) from 1920 to 1960 and his significant influence in the founding of the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO). Lewis began his career as a coal miner at a young age, following in his father’s footsteps. His firsthand experience with the harsh conditions faced by miners fueled his passion for labor rights. In 1911, he became an organizer for the UMWA and quickly rose through the ranks due to his charismatic leadership and unyielding advocacy for workers’ rights. During his time with the UMWA, Lewis led several successful strikes, including the famous 1937 “Little Steel Strike” and the 1943 coal miners’ strike, which resulted in better wages and working conditions for miners. His leadership was instrumental in the establishment of the CIO in 1935, which sought to organize industrial workers across various sectors. Lewis’s impact extended beyond labor organizing; he was a key advisor to President Franklin D. Roosevelt and played a significant role in shaping New Deal policies that benefited workers. Despite his sometimes contentious relationship with other labor leaders and political figures, Lewis remained a formidable force in the labor movement until his retirement in 1960. John L. Lewis passed away on June 11, 1969, in Washington, D.C., leaving behind a legacy of tireless advocacy for workers’ rights.

5 Interesting Facts about John L. Lewis

1. John L. Lewis was instrumental in the founding of the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) in 1935.

2. He served as the president of the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) for an unprecedented 40 years.

3. Lewis was known for his powerful oratory skills, which he used effectively to rally support for labor causes.

4. He played a significant role in the passage of the National Labor Relations Act of 1935, which guaranteed workers the right to unionize.

5. Despite his labor advocacy, Lewis was a conservative Republican, which often put him at odds with other labor leaders.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from John L. Lewis

1. “The workers of the nation were tired of waiting for corporate industry to right their economic wrongs.”

2. “Labor never quits. We never give up the fight – no matter how tough the odds, no matter how long it takes.”

3. “The organized labor movement has brought justice and democracy to the shop floor, and progress and prosperity to the nation.”

4. “I have pleaded your case not in the tones of a mendicant, but in the voice of a sovereign.”

5. “If there is any way to avoid using force, I will do it. But if force is necessary, I am prepared to use it.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

John L. Lewis’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but it is known that he lived modestly compared to many contemporary leaders. His focus was primarily on advancing labor causes rather than personal wealth.