What was the purpose of the National Labor Relations Act (Wagner Act) of 1935?

The National Labor Relations Act, commonly known as the Wagner Act, was enacted in 1935 to protect the rights of workers, particularly their right to organize into labor unions and engage in collective bargaining with their employers. This act aimed to ensure that workers could advocate for better working conditions, wages, and overall fairness in the workplace without fear of retaliation from their employers.

By creating a framework that supported the formation of labor unions and recognized their legitimacy in negotiations, the Wagner Act empowered workers and helped to balance the power dynamics between employers and employees during a time when many workers faced exploitation and harsh conditions. The act established the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), which oversees the process of union elections and handles disputes between unions and employers, solidifying the legal basis for collective bargaining rights.

The other choices refer to important but different aspects of labor and economic policy. While promoting free trade, establishing a minimum wage, and regulating child labor were significant issues during the same era, they were not the primary focus of the Wagner Act. Therefore, the act's core purpose was fundamentally about strengthening workers' rights to organize and negotiate collectively.