Ira Steward
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Ira Steward | |
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| Born | 1831 |
| Died | March 13, 1883 (aged 51–52) |
| Known for | Machinist, Philosopher of Eight Hour Movement |
| Notable work | The Eight Hour Movement: A Reduction of Hours Is an Increase in Wages (1865) |
| Movement | Eight Hour Leagues |
Ira Steward (1831–1883) was a key figure in labor movement in the United States during the late 19th century. He is best known as a leading advocate of the eight-hour work day. The effect would need to open jobs for more workers, and open new hours of leisure.
Though little is known of Steward's early life, he became more involved with the labor movement while working twelve hours a day as a machinist's apprentice. He would go on to use this working experience as a means to garner sympathy and credibility in the movement while speaking at labor union meetings, taking part in strikes and publishing pamphlets.
On the recommendation of Steward, the Machinists' and Blacksmiths' Union (to which he belonged) sent resolutions to the Boston Trades' Assembly, urging for a concentration on reduction of hours for working individuals.
Not satisfied with the efforts of the Boston Trades' Assembly in approaching the issue, Steward joined several other former Machinists' and Blacksmiths' Union members in forming the Labor Reform Association, which in 1865 would be reconstituted into the Grand Eight Hour League of Massachusetts.
