How did the homestead strike help as well as hurt the AFL?

The Homestead Strike of 1892 highlighted the challenges faced by the American Federation of Labor (AFL) in advocating for workers' rights, as it showcased the intense opposition from both industry and government. While it galvanized support for labor movements and emphasized the need for solidarity among workers, the violent confrontation ultimately weakened the AFL's influence, as it led to a significant setback in union membership and public perception. The strike underscored the difficulties of organizing skilled labor in the face of aggressive corporate tactics, illustrating both the potential and the limitations of union power during that era.