During mid 19th century, coal mining dominated North Eastern Pennsylvania, a state with great potential of anthracite coal. In 1870s, very powerful individuals controlled the coal fields and railroads. These individuals monopolized the coal industry recruiting immigrants to work for fewer wage than the American employees, luring them with promises of fortune. Hundreds of immigrants, transported by trains, replaced the local minors who were forced one by one to pave way for immigrants, either abandoning or re-treating the industry. The immigrants were exposed to health risks and hazards since they were frequently unable to adhere to safety regulations. Frequent injuries and deaths in coal mines disaster reported in daily newspapers alarmed the nation. About 22000 …show more content…
The molly Maquireism and trade unions had different style of organization and protest. With the five-year existence of WBA, the relationship between employers and employees had considerably improved. WBA were indisputably opposed to the Molly Maguires bringing to end the crimes subjected to coal miners. Most Irish miners were members of WBA, with half of the officers bearing Irish names. On the other hand, there existed a disorganized group of men called Molly Maguires, comprising of only Irish. These unions endeavored to improve the working conditions of workers in anthracite region. The WBA union strategy was indirect, peaceful, gradual and well organized across the coal mine region, while that of the Mollies was direct, sporadic, violent and restricted to a specific location. There were repeated tension between English and Weilsh miners, who held skilled positions, and the high number of unskilled labors of Irish descent. However, despite such differences, WBA provided remarkable solutions to overcome such