Seattle General Strike

Definition

The Seattle General Strike of 1919 was a major labor action where approximately 65,000 workers from various unions participated in a citywide strike that lasted for five days. This strike emerged as a response to post-World War I economic turmoil, rising inflation, and poor working conditions, reflecting the broader labor movements of the era advocating for workers' rights and better wages.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Seattle General Strike began on February 6, 1919, and was primarily driven by workers in the shipyard industry, who were demanding higher wages and better working conditions.
2. During the strike, the city of Seattle came to a near standstill as public services, including schools and transportation, were disrupted.
3. The strike was notable for its solidarity among various unions, including those from metal trades, longshoremen, and even teachers, highlighting a rare moment of unity across different labor sectors.
4. While the strike was largely peaceful, it ended on February 11 when city officials declared it a threat to public safety, leading to a swift return to work without any major concessions from employers.
5. The Seattle General Strike had lasting implications on labor relations in the U.S., contributing to heightened fears of radicalism during the Red Scare and influencing future labor movements.

Review Questions

• How did the economic conditions following World War I contribute to the Seattle General Strike?
  • Following World War I, the U.S. faced significant economic challenges such as inflation and high unemployment rates. Workers were struggling with the rising cost of living while their wages remained stagnant. These harsh economic realities prompted various labor unions in Seattle to organize a general strike in an effort to demand better pay and working conditions, illustrating the direct connection between economic hardship and labor unrest during this period.
• Discuss the impact of the Seattle General Strike on labor relations in the United States during the early 20th century.
  • The Seattle General Strike significantly influenced labor relations by showcasing the power of organized labor when workers unite across different industries. It raised awareness about workers' rights and sparked discussions about labor reforms. However, it also fueled fears of socialism and radicalism among government officials and business leaders during the Red Scare, leading to crackdowns on unions and labor movements in subsequent years.
• Evaluate the significance of solidarity among various unions during the Seattle General Strike and its implications for future labor movements.
  • The solidarity demonstrated by various unions during the Seattle General Strike marked a pivotal moment in U.S. labor history. Different sectors came together to support one another's demands, which underscored a collective recognition of shared struggles within the workforce. This cooperation laid a foundation for future labor movements by promoting inter-union collaboration and establishing a framework for collective action that would be referenced in later strikes across the country.

Related terms

Labor Union: An organization of workers formed to protect their rights and interests, typically negotiating wages, working conditions, and benefits through collective bargaining.

Wage Growth: The increase in the compensation paid to workers over time, often influenced by inflation, labor demand, and union negotiations.

Socialism: A political and economic theory advocating for collective or governmental ownership and administration of the means of production and distribution of goods, often associated with labor movements.