Write at least two paragraphs about the benefits and dangers of using strikes to help workers achieve their goals.
Express your chosen pros and cons as effective claims and counterclaims.
Use at least one example of a strike from the lesson to support your arguments.
Using strikes can be an effective way for workers to achieve their goals and improve their working conditions. One major benefit is that strikes can bring attention to the issues that workers are facing and put pressure on employers to take their concerns seriously. For example, in the lesson we learned about the 1919 Seattle General Strike, where over 65,000 workers went on strike for higher wages and better working conditions. This strike ultimately led to the recognition of the labor union and improvements in workers' pay and benefits. This demonstrates the power of strikes in mobilizing workers and bringing about positive change.
However, there are also potential dangers and downsides to using strikes as a means to achieve workers' goals. One major concern is the potential for violence and disruption. Strikes can sometimes escalate into confrontations between workers, management, and even law enforcement. This was evident in the 1892 Homestead Strike, where a violent clash between striking steelworkers and Pinkerton detectives resulted in several deaths. Such incidents not only endanger the lives of those involved but can also damage public support for the workers' cause. Thus, while strikes can be effective in drawing attention to workers' concerns, their escalation into violence can undermine the legitimacy and success of the movement.
In conclusion, while strikes can be a powerful tool for workers to achieve their goals, it is important to weigh the benefits against the potential dangers. Strikes can bring attention to workers' issues and put pressure on employers to address their concerns, as seen in the example of the Seattle General Strike. However, the potential for violence and disruption must be carefully managed to maintain public support and the legitimacy of the workers' cause, as exemplified by the Homestead Strike. Overall, strikes should be seen as a strategic means to an end, requiring careful planning and consideration of the potential risks involved.