John D. Rockefeller generally treated his workers fairly and sought to foster a family-like atmosphere within his company, Standard Oil. He was known for joining his laborers in the field, giving praise rather than harsh rebukes, and respecting the opinions of his managers. Rockefeller advocated for giving workers paid vacations and believed in paying higher than market wages to reduce strikes and labor unrest. Overall, he aimed to create loyalty among his workforce by treating them well and inspiring them to work for the collective good of the company. This approach earned him respect from many of his workers who felt invested in the company's success.
However, there were criticisms and controversies, particularly connected to his son John D. Rockefeller Jr.'s management of the Colorado Fuel and Iron Company, where labor conditions were harsh, and workers faced company- controlled housing and stores, which led to strikes and unrest. This side of the Rockefeller labor legacy reflected more exploitative practices at certain times and places, especially in the coal mining sector.
In summary, John D. Rockefeller's treatment of workers reflected a mix of fair and family-oriented labor practices within Standard Oil, contrasted with some harsher, more paternalistic practices under his son's management in other business sectors. The overall reputation leans toward fair treatment in his main oil business with some exceptions.
