Origins & Early Life

William George Meany (August 16, 1894 – January 10, 1980) was an American labor union administrator for 57 years. He was a vital figure in the creation of the AFL–CIO and served as its first president, from 1955 to 1979. Meany, the son of a union plumber, became a plumber himself at a young age. Within a decade, he was a full-time union official.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

As an officer of the American Federation of Labor, he represented the AFL on the National War Labor Board during World War II. He held the position of AFL president from 1952 to 1955. In 1952, Meany proposed a merger of the AFL with the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO). He managed the negotiations until the merger was completed in 1955, creating the largest federation of unions in the United States. He was AFL–CIO president for the next 24 years.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Meany had a reputation for integrity and consistent opposition to corruption in the labor movement, and strong anti-communism. He was one of the best-known union leaders in the U.S. during the mid-20th century. Meany was born into a Roman Catholic family in Harlem, New York City on August 16, 1894, the second of 10 children. His parents were Michael Meany and Anne Cullen...

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• 1894 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1894
• August 16 (08-16) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on August 16
• 1980 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1980
• January 10 (01-10) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on January 10