Tensions and Tragedy: The Matewan Massacre

This chapter explores the violent tactics of the Baldwin-Felts Detective Agency in suppressing union organizing in West Virginia, leading to the notorious Matewan Massacre. It examines the struggles of coal miners, the role of local leaders like Sid Hatfield, and the tragic events on May 19, 1920, where the confrontation culminated in chaos and loss of life. The narrative reveals the complex dynamics between miners, detectives, and the community, highlighting the tragic impact of labor disputes on innocent lives.