The American Federation of Labor (AFL) was founded in 1886 as a national organization of labor unions in the United States. It aimed to improve working conditions, wages, and hours for skilled workers. The AFL focused on organizing workers by trade and sought to negotiate directly with employers to achieve better labor standards. Under the leadership of figures like Samuel Gompers, the AFL grew significantly, advocating for collective bargaining and the rights of workers. The organization played a crucial role in the labor movement, influencing policies and labor laws that benefited workers across various industries in the U.S.