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Effects Of The Ludlow Massacre

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Recommended: Labor unions 1800 to 1900

Alexis M. Lamie
Statement of Interest
ECON 40423
Fall 2014
John Lovett
What were the socio-economic effects of the Ludlow Massacre?

Abstract:
Beginning in the late 19th century, union strikes throughout the American coal industry started a socio-economic revolution. The strikes brought to attention the economic injustices in the industrial sector as well as in the workplace. These infringements upon workers included lack of pay, unsafe work environments, and unequal ‘slave-like’ treatment which resulted in lives being destroyed by big business. This paper will focus on the Colorado Coal Strikes, and in particular, one which resulted in the Ludlow Massacre. …show more content…

During this time, rises in the demand of coal-powered steam engines led to a rapid increase of coal mining (Wrigley 54). As the evolution of the market system took place, the small scale techniques that the industry had been using were not supplying a sufficient level of coal output needed to maintain the high demand in the manufacturing and transportation sectors. This deficiency prompted a transition for the coal mining industry that involved dangerous mining techniques and labor …show more content…

Sixty-six men, women, and children died during the strike, but not a single militiaman or private detective was charged with any crime (Gitelman 55). It wasn't until 1935 that workers attained true laboring rights, but the efforts of the coal strikers created a butterfly effect that impacted future socio-economic standing (Butero).
IV. Economic Effects of the Ludlow Massacre
Even though the strike was unsuccessful in its time, it eventually paved the way for the passages of acts and regulations that greatly impacted, economic injustices, immigration employment reform, worker health and safety, 8-hour work days, and change in child labor laws.
Recognition of the Labor

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