Friday, August 24, 2012

Today in Labor History

August 24

The Mechanics Gazette, believed to be the first U.S. labor newspaper, is published in Philadelphia, the outgrowth of a strike by Carpenters demanding a shorter, 10-hour day. The strike lost but labor journalism blossomed: within five years there were 68 labor newspapers across the country, many of them dailies - 1827

[Grassroots Journalism: A Practical Manual for Newswriting is a very helpful tool for activists who need – or want – to write about working peoples’ issues for their union newsletters, community newspapers and other media outlets. One chapter deals with how the mass media cover strikes, while another documents how the media do not cover many events and issues that are important to working people. Included is an extensive guide to groups, books and other publications useful to grassroots journalists. This is a thoroughly revised and updated second edition (2007), with expanded sections on electronic media, labor writing, and getting your articles published. It contains everything you’ll need to be an effective, published journalist, and make a positive impact on your community. In the UCS bookstore now.]

The Gatling Gun Co. -- manufacturers of an early machine gun -- writes to B&O Railroad Co. President John W. Garrett during a strike, urging their product be purchased to deal with the "recent riotous disturbances around the country." Says the company: "Four or five men only are required to operate (a gun), and one Gatling ... can clear a street or block and keep it clear" - 1877

National Association of Letter Carriers formed - 1889

United Farm Workers Union begins lettuce strike - 1970
SOURCE: Union Communications Services, Inc.


SOURCE: Working Class Heroes

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