How did the Great Railroad Strike of 1877 demonstrate the power of workers?
How did the Great Railroad strike of 1877 demonstrate the power of workers? The strike showed that workers could slow or even stop the economy.
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A prolonged rail strike could create all types of shortages, from gasoline to food to automobiles, and cause a spike in the prices of all types of consumer goods. It can screw up the commutes of tens of thousands of workers who take the train to work, slow the delivery of parts and force factories to shut down.
The strike had a major impact on the national economy because workers in other industries joined the strike. The strike had a major impact on the national economy because it prevented trade and commerce.
In the summer of 1867, thousands of Chinese workers organized the largest labor stoppage in America up to that date to demand both equal pay and better working conditions. Railroad bosses ultimately broke the strike by withholding food rations and threatening violence, and the workers' demands were denied.
The railroad opened the way for the settlement of the West, provided new economic opportunities, stimulated the development of town and communities, and generally tied the country together.
It was caused by a 10 percent wage cut which resulted in the workers deciding no train leaves the station until the wage cut was eliminated. Police were forced to take control after a crowd had gathered in support of the railroad workers.