List and briefly explain the events that happened in the 1890’s that demonstrated labor unrest.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_of_labor_issues_and_events
To identify the events that occurred in the 1890s that demonstrated labor unrest, we can follow these steps:
1. Start by researching the term "labor unrest" to understand its significance and the context in which it occurred in the 1890s.
2. Look for primary and secondary sources such as historical articles, books, and websites that focus on labor history during the 1890s.
3. From the gathered sources, make a list of notable events that exemplify labor unrest in the 1890s. Below, I will provide a brief explanation of some key events during this period:
a) Homestead Strike (1892): The Homestead Strike was a major conflict between workers represented by the Amalgamated Association of Iron and Steel Workers and the Carnegie Steel Company in Pennsylvania. The workers went on strike to protest wage cuts and poor working conditions. It eventually resulted in violence when the company hired Pinkerton detectives to break the strike, leading to deaths and injuries.
b) Pullman Strike (1894): The Pullman Strike occurred when workers at the Pullman Palace Car Company went on strike to protest reduced wages and increased rent for company housing. The American Railway Union, led by Eugene V. Debs, supported the strike. Eventually, the strike was suppressed by federal troops, and leaders were arrested under the pretext of obstructing mail delivery.
c) Coeur d'Alene miners' strike (1892): This strike took place in the Coeur d'Alene mining district of Idaho. Miners, predominantly members of the Western Federation of Miners, went on strike to demand improved working conditions and higher wages. The strike turned violent as the Idaho governor declared martial law and sent in the National Guard to suppress the strike.
d) Lattimer Massacre (1897): The Lattimer Massacre occurred in Pennsylvania when a peaceful march by coal miners demanding better working conditions and wages turned violent. The local sheriff and deputies fired into the crowd, resulting in the deaths of 19 miners and the injury of many others.
e) Streetcar strikes: During the 1890s, there were several streetcar strikes across different cities, including New York, Boston, and Cleveland. Streetcar workers sought better pay, improved working conditions, and the right to unionize.
These events collectively highlight the labor unrest that was prevalent during the 1890s. By researching more about these specific strikes and incidents, you can gain a deeper understanding of the context, causes, effects, and significance of each event.