Labor Hall of Fame Honoree (1996)

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William Green 1870-1952 "As labor is free, so all are free."

Twenty years a coal miner, Ohio-born William Green was early noted for his diligence and strong spiritual values. Rising steadily through the ranks of the United Mine Workers and the American Federation of Labor, he succeeded AFL President Samuel Gompers in 1924. From then until his death in 1952 he provided a firm, moral compass for the American trade union movement. He was a vigorous force for economic justice and human welfare, a tireless fighter against bigotry and totalitarianism both at home and abroad, and an articulate voice for millions who could not speak for themselves.