Labor Unions & Major Strikes

Labor Unions & Major StrikesActivity:You are workers at a skate factory. Write a letter to your boss listing the changes you want.

Activity 2:Your boss rejects your list!What will you do now?

Problems for WorkersPoor work conditionsLow PayLong HoursUnsafe workChildren workNo sick or vacation payIf hurt on job lose your job

Tactics Used By ManagementBlacklist: your name goes on a list that is given to other companies so they wont hire youYellow Dog Contracts: the company makes you sign a contract that you wont join a unionScabs: Immigrants who will take the jobs of striking workers

What can the workers do?Form a union!Labor Union: a group that helps workers fight for rights

Tactics Used by WorkersWork Slowdown: you go to work but make less so it hurts the profit of the businessPicket: hold signs outside so people wont buy from that businessBoycott: dont buy the goods/servicesStrike: Dont work

How do they work together?Collective Bargaining: both sides negotiate pay, hours etcMediation: a third party helps the two come to an agreement but they dont have to take the adviceArbitration: a third party gives advice that the sides have to do

First Major StrikesRailroad Strike of 1877Company was going to cut wages 10%Militia in Philadelphia kills some workersPresident Hayes sent out troops

Who Won?

ManagementHomestead Strike 1892AFLIron/Steel Workers against CarnegieHis Asst. Frick cuts wagesFrick uses Pinkertons to break up strikeDeaths and Injuries Both SidesFrick almost gets assassinatedUnion calls off Strike

Who Won?

ManagementPullman Strike 1894RailroadPullman started towns for his workersCut Wages 25 to 40%Strike Affects MailPres. Cleveland stops strike and sends troops

Who Won?

ManagementEffect?Government doesnt recognize unionsViolence/UnrestWhy is it hard for workers to win rights?Because so many new immigrants increase supply of workers!Immigrants will work for less!