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Great Railroad Strike of 1877

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AP US History

Definition

The Great Railroad Strike of 1877 was a nationwide strike by railroad workers in the United States protesting wage cuts and poor working conditions during the Gilded Age. It marked one of the first major strikes in U.S. history, reflecting the growing tensions between labor and industrial capitalists as the nation experienced rapid economic expansion and social upheaval.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The strike began in response to wage cuts implemented by the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, which angered workers who were already facing difficult conditions.
  2. The protest quickly escalated, spreading to multiple states and resulting in violent clashes between workers and state militia forces.
  3. The strike highlighted the growing power of organized labor and the willingness of workers to fight for their rights, even in the face of significant opposition.
  4. Federal troops were eventually deployed to restore order, marking a significant intervention by the government in labor disputes.
  5. The Great Railroad Strike of 1877 set a precedent for future labor movements and strikes, underscoring the ongoing struggles between workers and corporate interests.

Review Questions

  • How did the Great Railroad Strike of 1877 reflect the broader labor struggles during the Gilded Age?
    • The Great Railroad Strike of 1877 exemplified the intense labor struggles characteristic of the Gilded Age, as workers protested against declining wages and harsh working conditions. This strike highlighted the frustrations of laborers amidst rapid industrialization and economic inequality. It also showcased how workers began organizing to fight back against corporate power, laying the groundwork for future labor movements.
  • Evaluate the impact of government intervention during the Great Railroad Strike of 1877 on the perception of labor movements.
    • Government intervention during the Great Railroad Strike of 1877 was significant in shaping public perception of labor movements. The deployment of federal troops to suppress the strike illustrated a tendency to side with corporate interests over workers' rights. This heavy-handed response reinforced fears about organized labor among some segments of society while simultaneously galvanizing other workers to mobilize for their rights, highlighting a complex relationship between state power and labor activism.
  • Analyze how the events of the Great Railroad Strike of 1877 influenced future labor policies and movements in America.
    • The Great Railroad Strike of 1877 had a lasting impact on American labor policies and movements by raising awareness about workers' rights and conditions across various industries. The violence and chaos that ensued led to increased public discourse on labor issues, resulting in a gradual shift towards recognizing the need for reform. As workers continued to advocate for better treatment, this event laid crucial groundwork for future legislation aimed at protecting labor rights, ultimately contributing to the establishment of more organized and recognized labor unions.
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