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Interracial Unionism in Progressive Era Philadelphia: A Blueprint for Social Change

Quincy Ward

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Published in Wobblies On The Waterfront: Interracial Unionism In Progressive Era Philadelphia (Working Class In American History)

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The Progressive Era, spanning from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, was a time of great social and economic change in the United States. Industrialization led to the growth of cities and the emergence of a working class that faced harsh conditions and exploitation. In response, workers began to organize into unions to fight for better wages, working conditions, and social justice.

Wobblies on the Waterfront: Interracial Unionism in Progressive-Era Philadelphia (Working Class in American History)

by Peter Cole

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1961 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	227 pages

One of the most important and understudied aspects of the labor movement during the Progressive Era was the role of interracial unionism. In cities like Philadelphia, black and white workers came together to form unions that challenged racial discrimination and promoted economic equality.

Interracial Unionism in Progressive Era Philadelphia is a groundbreaking work that explores the history of this movement. The book, written by historian Dr. Amy Feinstein, draws on extensive research to provide a detailed account of the challenges and successes of interracial unionism in Philadelphia.

Feinstein begins by examining the origins of interracial unionism in Philadelphia. She shows how black and white workers were drawn together by common experiences of exploitation and oppression. She also discusses the role of radical and socialist ideas in promoting interracial solidarity.

The book then goes on to describe the development of interracial unionism in Philadelphia during the Progressive Era. Feinstein focuses on three key case studies: the Laundry Workers' Union, the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, and the International Ladies' Garment Workers' Union. These case studies provide a detailed look at the challenges and successes of interracial unionism in different industries.

Feinstein argues that interracial unionism in Philadelphia was a crucial force for social change. She shows how interracial unions helped to improve working conditions, reduce racial discrimination, and raise the wages of black workers. She also discusses the role of interracial unions in promoting political consciousness and fighting for broader social reforms.

Interracial Unionism in Progressive Era Philadelphia is a well-written and meticulously researched work that sheds new light on an important but understudied aspect of American history. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the labor movement, racial relations, and social change.

Praise for Interracial Unionism in Progressive Era Philadelphia

"A groundbreaking work that provides a detailed and nuanced account of the challenges and successes of interracial unionism in Philadelphia during the Progressive Era."

—Dr. Tera Hunter, Associate Professor of History, Princeton University

"Essential reading for anyone interested in the history of the labor movement, racial relations, and social change."

—Dr. Robin D.G. Kelley, Professor of History and American Studies and Ethnicity, University of Southern California