Following a brief historical background of the union stewardship in the United States, the report presents an overview of the literature. The role of stewards is discussed, including the stewards' constituency, status and powers, their function as grievance handlers in the external government, and their status in unions' internal government. A comparative analysis looks at the roles of stewards in craft and industrial unions, single-employer and amalgamated locals, private and public sector unions, and white- and blue-collar private industries. A consideration of stewards as individuals focuses on their attitudes, motivations, rewards, training, socialization, and other characteristics. Finally, the changing status of stewards is examined with reference to conflicts and role changes created by the increasing complexity of centralization and collective bargaining, changing social structures, and the increased control implicit in labor law and arbitration. Section notes and 116 references are provided. (Author summary modified)