Labor College, established by the All-China Federation of Trade Unions ( ACFTU ) in Guangzhou in 1926, has clear historical connections with China University of Labor Relations ( CULR ) and its predecessor in terms of its educational philosophy, objectives, main body, curriculum, and student management. In addition, the legacy between Liu Shaoqi and Labor College, Yan'an Workers' School, and the ACFTU Cadre School makes Labor College the earliest starting point in the history of CULR and the beginning of the ACFTU's higher education for worker cadres. This study explores the historical origins of Labor College and CULR, which is conducive to promoting the current construction of CULR, advancing the development of a curriculum focused on morality and character building, presenting the development of the ACFTU's cadre training program, and enhancing the understanding of the historical heritage of labor education under the leadership of the CPC. Hence, it is of strong practical signifi cance.