Ever wondered who kickstarted the movement for worker's rights and reshaped the labour landscape forever? Enter Peter J. McGuire, a visionary who not only founded the United Brotherhood of Carpenters in 1882 but also etched Labour Day into the calendar, all while championing the cause of workers across the nation.

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Amid an industrial revolution, McGuire orchestrated a historic convention in Chicago in 1881, drawing representatives from 11 cities. Over four intense days, they birthed a constitution and laid the foundation for what would become the UBC, with McGuire at the helm as its inaugural general secretary. Through unwavering dedication, McGuire spearheaded pivotal changes like the eight-hour workday and a significant wage increase, propelling the union's membership to over 167,000 by 1903. And let's not forget his crowning achievement – establishing Labor Day, a timeless tribute to the backbone of every nation, its workers.

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But McGuire's journey wasn't without its trials. In the face of a relentless open-shop onslaught in the early 20th century, the Carpenters Union stood tall, even amidst World War I's fervent demand for rapid construction. With unwavering resolve, they safeguarded union standards, ensuring fair treatment for carpenters nationwide.

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The battle didn't end with wartime victory. Enter the "American Plan," a ferocious assault on union labour that tested the UBC's mettle in the 1920s. Refusing to yield, the Brotherhood weathered the storm, emerging in 1928 with a robust membership of 345,000 despite the era's challenges.

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Then came the Great Depression, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the workforce. But amidst the turmoil, the UBC rose to the occasion, advocating for unemployment insurance and embracing Roosevelt's New Deal initiatives to combat economic hardship.

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As the dust settled post-World War II, a new struggle emerged – the rise of non-union contractors threatening the industry's fabric. Yet, undeterred, the Brotherhood adapted, fortifying its apprenticeship programs to meet evolving industry demands.

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Fast forward to the present, and though the workforce may have evolved, the essence of the UBC remains unchanged since those pivotal days in 1881. With current leadership echoing McGuire's spirit of adaptability, the union continues to champion the rights and futures of carpenters nationwide.

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So, as we reflect on our rich history, one thing remains abundantly clear – whether in 1881 or 2024, the United Brotherhood of Carpenters stands unwavering in its mission to empower those who build our world, one nail at a time.