The idea of a general strike in the US – a coordinated work stoppage across various industries – often conjures images of widespread disruption. But what's the history behind this potent tool of labor activism? While a nationwide general strike has never fully materialized in the US, its specter has loomed large in key moments of labor history.
Early examples like the Philadelphia General Strike of 1835, a demand for a 10-hour workday, illustrate the potential power of collective action. The Seattle General Strike of 1919, though lasting only five days, paralyzed the city and showcased the workers' ability to run essential services.
However, subsequent attempts faced challenges. Internal divisions, government intervention, and shifts in the economic landscape hampered widespread adoption. Despite not achieving national success, general strikes (or the threat of them) have demonstrably influenced labor negotiations and contributed to significant social and political changes, underscoring their enduring impact on the American labor movement.
