Why did Terence Powderly oppose strikes during his leadership of the Knights of Labor?

Terence Powderly's opposition to strikes during his tenure as the leader of the Knights of Labor stemmed from his belief in a collaborative approach to labor relations rather than an adversarial one. He viewed strikes as a form of confrontation that could alienate potential allies, including employers and the general public. Powderly advocated for negotiation and dialogue as more effective means to achieve labor goals, believing that harmony between workers and management could lead to better outcomes for both parties. This philosophy was part of a broader vision for the labor movement in which he sought to enhance the quality of life for workers through constructive engagement, rather than through conflictual methods. By promoting collaboration, he aimed to build a more unified labor movement that could achieve systemic change without the immediate disruptions that strikes often caused.