I think your history of the origins of unions is way off the truth. The first unions were guilds of skilled workers formed to protect their interests against lesser skilled interlopers. In other words they were exclusive clubs giving entry only to people skilled enough to be acceptable to the other members. They were specifically designed to protect their higher wages and to restrict the free practices of others.

They were never originally formed to protect the conditions of the unskilled masses in the industrial revolution.

A very thoutfull and refreshing post on a potential 'post union' workplace. Irrespective of the history of unionism, it has served for good for many. Such a pitty for those in the HSU at the moment. Like you, I moved from membership to indifference. A good read.

Unions=organised crime, mess with the CFMEU and you're likely to be favoured with a visit from some large "motorcycle enthusiasts".
As a subcontractor with over 20 years experience I've never been as despicably treated, bullied, threatened and intimidated by an employer as I have by union thugs, people might be forgiven for thinking that the "bad old days" ended in the 1980's but it's far from the truth.