syndicalists

Syndicalists are advocates of syndicalism, a movement that emphasizes collective ownership and control of the economy by workers' unions or syndicates. This political and economic movement emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, largely in response to the industrialization and capitalism of the time. Syndicalism is often associated with revolutionary socialism, as it seeks to replace capitalism with a system of economic democracy.

The core idea of syndicalism is that workers should organize themselves into syndicates or unions to manage the means of production directly. This is in contrast to other forms of socialism that advocate for state ownership or regulation of the economy. Syndicalists believe that through these syndicates, workers can achieve economic and political power, leading to a more equitable and democratic society.

Syndicalism has been influential in various countries, particularly in France, Spain, and Italy. In France, the General Confederation of Labor (CGT) was a prominent syndicalist organization. In Spain, the National Confederation of Labor (CNT) played a significant role in the Spanish Revolution of 1936. Syndicalist ideas have also influenced other movements, such as anarchism and communism.

Syndicalists often employ tactics such as general strikes, sabotage, and direct action to achieve their goals. They aim to create a society where workers have control over their labor and the fruits of their work, leading to a more just and egalitarian social order. Despite its historical influence, syndicalism remains a minority movement within the broader labor and socialist movements.