Comedians delve into the dark history of the Pinkerton Agency, from violent clashes to deceptive tactics during worker strikes. The podcast uncovers a conspiracy involving a Pinkerton agent mistaken for a dog fancier and explores their modern-day involvements with tech giants. Law enforcement tactics, conflict anticipation, and a comedy stand-up tour announcement are also discussed.
The Anti-Pinkerton Act of 1893 prohibits federal government from hiring private contractors like Pinkertons, but states lack similar legislation.
Pinkertons' abusive tactics during strikes include violence, wrongful arrests, and intimidation, leading to destruction of unionism.
Bob Pinkerton advocates harsh measures against anarchists post-McKinley's assassination, proposing deportation and creating an anarchist colony in the Philippines.
Deep dives
The Anti-Pinkerton Act Passes in Response to Pinkertons' Controversial Actions
In response to the Pinkertons' violent actions during strikes, Congress passes the Anti-Pinkerton Act in 1893, banning the federal government from hiring private contractors or mercenaries like the Pinkertons. This act prohibits private companies from hiring armed guards and mercenaries to handle labor disputes. While a step in the right direction, the act falls short as it puts the onus on the states to pass their laws against the practice.
The Pinkertons' Blatant Disregard for Laws and Human Rights
The Pinkertons' involvement in strikes leads to numerous incidents of violence, wrongful arrests, and intimidation tactics, such as evicting families and shooting at crowds. They operate covertly, violate state laws by never being sworn in as deputies, and engage in illegal activities like evidence tampering and jury bribery. Their abusive tactics and disregard for laws destroy unionism in various industries, leaving a trail of devastation and fear in their wake.
Bob Pinkerton's Extreme Views on Anarchism and Proposed Solutions
Following President McKinley's assassination by an anarchist, Bob Pinkerton calls for harsh measures to suppress anarchism, advocating for the deportation of anyone preaching anarchy. He believes in rough-handed approaches to tackling the anarchist threat and suggests establishing an anarchist colony on a Philippine island. Bob claims that such measures could have prevented McKinley's assassination, showcasing his extreme views and proactive, albeit controversial, solutions.
Pinkerton's Infiltration of Unions
Pinkerton operatives infiltrated unions during strikes leading to internal conflicts and union splits. Undercover agents spread lies to disrupt union operations, causing divisions within union leadership. The operatives manipulated relief funds, drained union treasuries, and climbed the ranks to influential positions to further undermine the unions.
Impact of Industrial Espionage and Union Busting
The Pinkertons engaged in industrial espionage and undermined unions for various companies, leading to dwindling union memberships, internal sabotage, and destruction of workers' organizations. As labor espionage became prevalent, over 200,000 spies were employed, disrupting labor movements for corporate interests. The narrative extends through the Pinkertons' evolution into industrial security services and their continued involvement in suppressing workers' rights, even in modern times.