Labor History in NEPA: A Course

Anthracite Strike of 1902

Many strikes (including strikes in other industries and around the country) preceded the Anthracite Strike of 1902. There were several miners strikes in the 1870s. In 1886, there was a widespread movement nationally for the 8 hour day. The five-month United Miner Workers strike against the Susquehanna Coal company in 1899 dramatically increased the number of union locals in the county. In 1900, a general strike was held and 20,000 miners in the area went on strike; a huge parade was held.

It was the 1902 strike, however, that really impacted the nation. Clarence Darrow, Mother Jones, John Mitchell, local labor priest Father Curran and President Theodore Roosevelt all figured into the events.

Significance

►Watch the video that discusses the significance of the 1902 strike.

Films on Demand is a database located at the library. Search for the clip entitled "Industrial War: Strike of 1902" from the film "Stories from the Mines: How Immigrant Miners Changed America."

►Read the Wikipedia article on the Anthracite Strike of 1902. In the Aftermath of the Strike section, note what sources are used. Then, locate some other sources to corroborate what was stated. Research local newspapers to find out what was reported locally.

Further Reading
Greene, Victor R. The Slavic community on strike; immigrant labor in Pennsylvania anthracite.

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