This Day The Sewer Socialist Mayor (1916)
Nov 4, 2025
Explore the fascinating rise of Milwaukee's 'sewer socialists' in the early 20th century, focusing on their impact on city services and public health. Discover how immigrant influences and labor unrest shaped a socialist stronghold. The hosts analyze Daniel Hoan's legacy of anti-KKK efforts and community projects, while drawing parallels to modern candidates like Zohran Mamdani. The discussion highlights the resurgence of socialist ideas in today's political landscape amid rising inequality and changing urban coalitions.
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Practical Service Over Theory
- Milwaukee's socialist movement focused on concrete city services rather than abstract theory.
- Delivering sanitary sewers, parks, and playgrounds made socialism appealing to working people.
Immigrant Roots And Organizing
- German immigrant culture and organizations like the Turners shaped Milwaukee's radical politics.
- These communities provided social infrastructure that eased socialist party-building.
Strike Violence Radicalized Workers
- After the 1886 strikes the Wisconsin National Guard fired on strikers, killing seven people including a 13-year-old.
- That violence drove many workers toward radical politics and party-building in Milwaukee.