George Addes facts for kids

George F. Addes (born August 26, 1911 – died June 19, 1990) was an important leader of the United Automobile Workers of America (UAW). This was a big group (a union) that helped people who worked in car factories. George Addes was one of its founders. He also served as its main financial officer, called the secretary-treasurer, from 1936 to 1947.

Early Life and Roots

George F. Addes was born on August 26, 1911. His birthplace was La Crosse, Wisconsin. He had family roots from Lebanon. George grew up in Toledo, Ohio.

Working for Change

George Addes started working at a car factory when he was just 17 years old. This was at the Willys Overland plant in Toledo.

He became a key figure in the UAW. This union worked to improve conditions for car factory workers. George Addes and another leader, Richard Frankensteen, led a major group within the UAW. They supported ideas like "piecework" and "incentive pay." Piecework means getting paid for each item you make. Incentive pay means getting extra money for working harder or faster.

Another leader, Walter Reuther, had different ideas. He and his group often disagreed with Addes. George Addes also took part in an important event called the Battle of the Overpass. This was a famous clash between union workers and Ford Motor Company security guards. In 1947, George Addes lost his leadership role in the UAW to Emil Mazey.

After leaving the UAW, George Addes went to work for the Ford Motor Company. He worked there until he retired in 1975.

Family and Later Years

George Addes married Gloria Saba. They had three children together.

George F. Addes passed away on June 19, 1990. He was 79 years old. He died at the Bon Secours Hospital in Grosse Pointe, Michigan.

See also

• Battle of the Overpass
• Communists in the U.S. Labor Movement (1919-1937)