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In Our Time: History

The Haymarket Affair

Oct 31, 2024
Ruth Kinna, a Political Theory professor, Christopher Phelps, an American Studies expert, and Gary Gerstle, an Emeritus History professor, dive into the infamous Haymarket Affair of 1886. They explore the bomb explosion during a workers' rally that sparked widespread chaos and the violent backlash against labor movements. The significant implications for workers' rights and the emergence of May Day as a global holiday are discussed. The chilling fates of the executed anarchists and their enduring legacy in the fight for social justice resonate throughout their conversation.
51:39

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Quick takeaways

  • The Haymarket Affair was a pivotal moment in labor history, highlighting the violent conflicts between workers and authorities during industrialization in America.
  • The trial of the anarchists following the bombing exemplified the persecution of political dissidents, influencing labor movements and legal proceedings for years to come.

Deep dives

Industrialization and Labor Tensions

The late 19th century saw rapid industrialization in America, particularly after the Civil War, leading to significant tensions between workers and employers. This period was characterized by unregulated capitalist development, resulting in severe inequality, a lack of welfare provisions, and widespread unemployment among workers. The growth of cities like Chicago, which swelled from 50,000 to 1.7 million residents in just five decades, further intensified labor conflicts as industrial activity surged. Without peaceful dispute resolution mechanisms, violence became commonplace in labor disputes, making America one of the most violent contexts for industrial relations globally.

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