United Automobile Workers

United Automobile Workers (United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America), second-largest U.S. industrial labor union, with local affiliates in Canada. Founded in 1935, it won recognition at General Motors, Chrysler, and Ford after major strikes and struggles (1937–41). Its members work in the automobile, space, aviation, and metal industries. The UAW cofounded the CIO, but left the AfL-CIO in 1968. Presidents have included Walter Reuther (1946–70), Leonard Woodcock (1970–77), and Douglas Fraser (1977– ). UAW headquarters are in Detroit.

See also: Unions, labor.