What was the key objective of Eugene V. Debs within the labor movement?

• A. Increase corporate profits
• B. Support government intervention
• C. Promote socialism and workers' rights
• D. Advocate for free market economy

Answer: (C)

Eugene V. Debs played a pivotal role in the labor movement by promoting socialism and advocating for the rights of workers. His key objective was to create a fairer system for the working class, where laborers had a significant voice and share in the wealth they produced. Debs believed that capitalism inherently exploited workers and that a social order based on collective ownership and democratic control of the means of production was necessary to ensure equitable treatment and better working conditions.

He was instrumental in founding the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) and played a significant role in organizing strikes and labor movements that sought to improve the conditions for workers, such as better wages, reasonable working hours, and the right to unionize. His vision extended beyond merely improving individual workers' conditions; he sought to overhaul the entire economic system in a way that prioritized human needs over corporate interests.

In juxtaposition, the other options are not aligned with Debs' ideology and objectives. The increase of corporate profits runs counter to his goals, as he criticized corporate greed and exploitation. Supporting government intervention might seem relevant, but Debs was critical of government actions that favored corporate over worker interests. Lastly, advocating for a free market economy directly contradicts Debs' push for socialism,