Albert Hallworth facts for kids

Albert Hallworth (born January 5, 1898 – died April 18, 1962) was a British trade unionist. A trade unionist is someone who works to protect the rights and interests of workers.

Who Was Albert Hallworth?

Albert Hallworth was an important figure in British trade unions. He spent much of his life working to improve conditions for railway workers.

Early Life and World War I

Albert Hallworth grew up in a town called Stockport, in England. He started working in a cotton mill when he was very young.

In 1914, when he was just 16 years old, Albert joined the Royal Fusiliers. This was a famous British Army regiment. He served as a drummer during World War I, which was a huge global conflict that lasted from 1914 to 1918.

Working on the Railways

After the war ended in 1918, Albert left the army in 1919. He then started a new job with the London, Midland and Scottish Railway. His first role was an engine cleaner, making sure the trains were ready to go.

He worked hard and was promoted several times. First, he became a fireman, who helped keep the steam engines running. Then, he became a spare driver, ready to drive trains when needed. During this time, he joined a union called the Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen (ASLEF). This union represented people who worked on trains, like drivers and firemen.

A Leader in Trade Unions

In 1938, Albert Hallworth began working full-time for ASLEF. He started as an organising secretary, which meant he helped set up and manage union activities. In 1948, he became the acting assistant general secretary, helping to lead the union.

In 1955, Albert played a key role in organising a big railway strike. A strike is when workers stop working to demand better pay or conditions. That same year, he also earned a place on the General Council of the Trades Union Congress. This council is a very important group that represents millions of workers across many different unions in Britain.

The next year, in 1956, Albert Hallworth was elected as the general secretary of ASLEF. This was the top leadership position in the union. He served in this role until 1960, continuing to fight for the rights of railway workers.