Working Class History E100: Vietnam War strike wave, part 2
Feb 5, 2025
Jeremy Brecher, a notable historian and labor movement scholar, dives into the striking wave of the Vietnam era. He discusses the bold wildcat strikes by postal workers and Teamsters defying bans, highlighting their fight for fair wages amid rising costs. Brecher reflects on the political implications of these actions and the public's perception of labor during wartime. He also shares insights on the impact of women-led consumer boycotts and the lessons from these historical struggles that resonate with today's labor movements.
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Postal Wildcat Overturns Federal Inaction
- Postal workers in New York set up picket lines and went on wildcat strike without union approval.
- The Army was sent in to occupy the post office but failed to sort mail effectively, forcing Congress to grant pay increases.
Teamsters' Mobile Pickets Choke Supply Lines
- Teamsters locals rejected a national deal and launched mobile pickets and blockades across key routes.
- National Guard escorts and injunctions failed and management conceded much larger wage increases.
GM Strike Used To Rein In Shop-Floor Militancy
- General Motors workers followed an official UAW strike that aimed to control rank-and-file militancy.
- After 67 days, secret talks left many locals unresolved but secured a 13% pay increase.
