Unidad 5. Vídeo 1. Flipped FOL. El derecho laboral y sus orígenes

Introduction to Labor Law

In this section, we will study labor legislation and explore the concept of labor law. We will understand that law is a set of rules that enable coexistence among humans, and these rules are grouped into different branches of law.

Understanding Different Branches of Law

• Civil Law: It regulates relationships between individuals, encompassing personal and property matters.

• Commercial Law: It governs the activities of merchants and their commercial relationships.

• Penal Law: It establishes which behaviors are considered criminal, what actions are punishable, and the corresponding sanctions.

• Administrative Law: It regulates the functioning of the state.

Introduction to Labor Law

In this section, we will focus on labor law or employment law, which consists of rules that regulate the relationship between workers and employers. These rules define the rights and duties of both parties in individual and collective contexts.

Historical Evolution of Labor Law

• Ancient Times: Workers were slaves owned by their masters who had complete control over them.

• Middle Ages: Workers became serfs under feudal lords who dictated work conditions.

• Industrial Revolution (18th century): Factory workers migrated from rural areas to cities for employment. Employers determined work conditions, wages, etc.

• Social Problems Arise: Overcrowded cities lacked proper infrastructure. Unsanitary living conditions led to health issues for workers. Low wages forced them to work despite illness or injury.

• Exploitation and Class Consciousness: Long working hours (over 15 hours per day), low wages, and poor working conditions led workers to form unions to fight for their rights.

Emergence of Labor Movements

This section focuses on the emergence of labor movements and the creation of unions to protect workers' rights.

Formation of Unions

• First Union in Spain: The oldest union in Spain is UGT (General Union of Workers), established in 1888 by workers to defend their rights.

• Manifestations and Conflicts: Workers organized protests, leading to clashes with hired gunmen, police, and even the army.

• State Intervention: The government started legislating and creating laws to address social issues.

Legislative Measures for Workers' Rights

This section highlights some legislative measures taken to protect workers' rights.

Examples of Legislative Measures

• Prohibition of Child Labor: In 1873, child labor under the age of 10 was prohibited in Spain.

• Eight-Hour Workday: In 1919, after a 44-day strike, the government approved an eight-hour workday.