Minimum Wage and Labor History

The video explores the history and evolution of the minimum wage, starting from its inception in the 19th century to its implementation in the U.S. It discusses the role of labor movements and strikes in shaping wage laws, the initial focus on protecting women and children, and the eventual establishment of a federal minimum wage. The video also highlights modern challenges and the ongoing debate over wage rates, emphasizing the importance of public sentiment and legislative action in achieving wage equity.

What is the primary purpose of the minimum wage?

• To exclude certain industries from wage regulations

• To align wages with the cost of living

• To ensure employees are paid less than a certain rate

• To protect employers from paying high wages

Which countries were the first to implement minimum wage laws?

• Germany and Italy

• United States and Canada

• New Zealand and Australia

• United Kingdom and France

What was a significant outcome of the Pullman Strike of 1894?

• Introduction of child labor laws

• Formation of the United Auto Workers

• Increase in minimum wage

• Establishment of Labor Day

Which act set the first nationwide minimum wage in the U.S.?

• Fair Labor Standards Act

• Social Security Act

• Wagner Act

• National Industrial Recovery Act

What was the initial minimum wage set by the Fair Labor Standards Act in 1938?

• 50 cents an hour

• 75 cents an hour

• 15 cents an hour

• 25 cents an hour

What was a major challenge in implementing the Fair Labor Standards Act?

• Opposition from labor unions

• Insufficient funding for enforcement

• Supreme Court rulings against labor laws

• Lack of support from workers

How many times has the U.S. federal minimum wage been raised since its first implementation?

• 15 times

• 10 times

• 22 times

• 30 times

What is the current federal minimum wage in the U.S. as of the last increase in 2009?

• $6.55

• $8.50

• $5.15

• $7.25

Which labor leader was associated with the 1965 farm worker strikes?

• Eugene V. Debs

• Cesar Chavez

• Martin Luther King Jr.

• Samuel Gompers

What is a current debate surrounding the minimum wage?

• Reducing it to increase employment

• Limiting it to certain industries

• Raising it to better match the cost of living

• Whether to abolish it entirely