What is the main purpose of the Wagner Act?

The Wagner Act, officially known as the National Labor Relations Act of 1935, fundamentally aimed to establish and protect the legal rights of workers to organize and join labor unions. This legislation was crucial in promoting collective bargaining, which allows workers to negotiate terms of employment with their employers through their chosen representatives. The Act also set up the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), which oversees labor relations and ensures that workers can exercise their rights free from employer interference or coercion.

By providing legal recognition to labor unions and their right to engage in collective bargaining, the Wagner Act significantly strengthened the labor movement during a time when workers faced substantial challenges. It played a pivotal role in shaping labor relations in the United States, fostering an environment where workers have the freedom to advocate for their rights and interests collectively. This foundation for labor relations is why the establishment of the legal right for workers to join labor unions is considered the main purpose of the Wagner Act.