a) The National Labor Relations Act

The Wagner Act of 1935, officially known as the National Labor Relations Act, marked a pivotal moment in U.S. labor history. This legislation strengthened the rights of workers to organize unions and engage in collective bargaining. Prior to this act, workers’ efforts to organize were often met with fierce opposition from employers. The Wagner Act aimed to equalize the bargaining power between employers and employees, and led to a significant increase in union membership. It played a crucial role in shaping the labor landscape of the United States, contributing to the rise of the middle class and improved working conditions.