Who defended the Knights of Labor?

James Cardinal Gibbons was a prominent supporter of the Knights of Labor, a significant labor organization in the United States during the late 19th century. His defense of the Knights was rooted in his broader advocacy for social justice and the rights of workers, which aligned with Catholic social teachings. Cardinal Gibbons believed in the importance of organized labor as a means to protect workers' rights and improve their conditions. He played a vital role in bridging the gap between the Catholic Church and the labor movement, emphasizing that labor was dignified and worthy of respect.

While other figures, such as Pope Leo XIII, also dealt with labor issues—most notably in his encyclical "Rerum Novarum," which addressed the rights of workers and the responsibilities of employers—Cardinal Gibbons's direct involvement and public support of the Knights of Labor distinguish him as a key defender of the organization. The other individuals mentioned, such as Cardinal Burke and Bishop Sheen, have different historical contexts and focuses within the realm of Catholicism and social issues, which is why they do not serve as the primary defenders of the Knights of Labor as Gibbons did.