This book investigates the evolution of the concept of industrial democracy in the United States from the end of the Civil War to the mid-1960s. Milton Derber, a noted labor historian, examines the various theories, movements, and practical applications of worker participation in industrial decision-making over a century of American economic and social change. The work analyzes the interplay between labor unions, management, government policy, and broader societal attitudes in shaping the discourse and reality of industrial democracy.

This scholarly work provides a comprehensive historical overview of industrial democracy in the United States, tracing its conceptual development and practical manifestations over a century. It is recognized for its detailed analysis of the forces shaping labor relations and worker participation. The book serves as a valuable resource for understanding the historical context of contemporary debates on workplace governance and employee rights.