Pullman Company

Definition

The Pullman Company was a significant American manufacturing company, founded by George Pullman in the 19th century, best known for producing luxury railroad cars. The company became famous for its innovative sleeping cars, which revolutionized rail travel in the United States. Its impact on the industry and workers was profound, especially during the economic turmoil surrounding the Panic of 1893, which highlighted labor disputes and economic inequality.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Pullman Company was founded in 1862 and quickly became known for its luxurious sleeper cars, significantly enhancing passenger comfort during long-distance train travel.
2. During the Panic of 1893, the Pullman Company faced financial difficulties, leading to wage cuts and increased tensions between management and workers, ultimately resulting in the Pullman Strike of 1894.
3. The Pullman Strike was one of the largest labor strikes in U.S. history, causing significant disruptions to rail traffic and prompting federal intervention when President Grover Cleveland sent troops to break the strike.
4. The town of Pullman, built by George Pullman for his workers, was notable for its model industrial community layout but also highlighted issues of company control over employees' lives.
5. After the strike and its violent suppression, public perception of labor unions shifted, leading to greater awareness of workers' rights and setting the stage for future labor reforms.

Review Questions

• How did the Pullman Company influence rail travel in America during the 19th century?
  • The Pullman Company revolutionized rail travel by introducing luxury sleeping cars that provided passengers with comfort and amenities previously unavailable on trains. This innovation not only enhanced the travel experience but also set new standards for passenger rail services across the country. The company's focus on quality and comfort contributed significantly to the growing popularity of rail travel during this period.
• What were the key events that led to the Pullman Strike of 1894, and how did it reflect broader economic conditions at the time?
  • The Pullman Strike erupted as a direct response to wage cuts and poor working conditions during the economic downturn of the Panic of 1893. As the Pullman Company slashed wages without lowering rents in company-owned housing, workers organized strikes in protest. The situation escalated as support from other railway workers spread nationwide, illustrating how economic hardship fueled labor unrest and highlighted the struggle between management and labor during this turbulent period.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of the Pullman Strike on labor relations in America and how it shaped future labor movements.
  • The Pullman Strike had significant long-term effects on labor relations in America by drawing national attention to workers' rights and injustices within industrial workplaces. The violent suppression of the strike prompted a reassessment of labor practices and increased public sympathy towards workers’ struggles. In subsequent years, it inspired greater organization among labor unions and led to legislative changes aimed at improving working conditions, setting a precedent for future labor movements advocating for rights and better treatment.

Related terms

George Pullman: The founder of the Pullman Company, George Pullman was an industrialist who designed and manufactured luxury railroad sleeping cars and was influential in the development of the town of Pullman, Illinois.

Labor Unions: Organizations formed by workers to advocate for their rights, negotiate wages, and improve working conditions, which played a crucial role in the labor disputes involving the Pullman Company.

Panic of 1893: A severe economic depression that struck the United States in 1893, leading to widespread unemployment and significant social unrest, including major strikes related to the Pullman Company.