Great Railroad Strike (jul 16, 1877 – jul 31, 1877)

Description:

The first national strike of the U.S. It was caused by wage cuts announced by the Baltimore and Ohio railroad. The workers weren't receiving pay raises and went on strike for this. They wouldn't allow any trains (Freight trains) to roll until the third wage cut was revoked. The National Guard units were sent to restore the train service by West Virginia Governor, Henry M. Mathews. The soldiers then refused to shoot any of the strikers, having Henry M. Mathews appeal for the federal troops. 39 buildings were burnt, 104 engines, 44-66 passenger cars, and 1,200 - 1383 freight trains as well. This strike spread to different states and had the national guard move there to stop it. They suppressed strike after strike until it finally ended. Many were killed and this was an unsuccessful strike as they didn't get what they wanted in the end.

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