The first female-led labor union in the United States was established by the garment workers in New York City during the late 19th century. The International Ladies' Garment Workers' Union (ILGWU) was formed in 1900, advocating for better working conditions, fair wages, and improved hours for women workers, primarily in clothing factories. Leaders like Clara Lemlich played pivotal roles in galvanizing support and mobilizing workers for strikes and actions that demanded reform. The ILGWU significantly contributed to the broader labor movement and women's rights, influencing labor policies and workplace standards in the United States for years to come.