Turning point : a historical look at the Pullman Strike and boycott.

Abstract

This thesis attempts a comprehensive approach to scholarship. The historical record is established first; next, attention is given to the historical interpretation of events. The final section of this work explores the long-range ramifications for the nation and the social and political consequences of unrestricted corporate freedom. The methodology throughout this work employs traditional historical tools plus other disciplines of study. The Pullman strike and boycott served as a turning point for the nation in many ways. The strike weakened the fragile coalition of American railway unions. At the same time, the strike brought to the attention of lawmakers and others in responsible positions that business reforms were both necessary and inevitable. T~le strike also added to the growing momentum for governmental regulation of railroads. Worker safety and overall working conditions were side issues indirectly linked to the strike through greater worker dissatisfaction and complaints against Pullman and the railroad corporations. The worker grievances of low pay, abusive foremen, and needless deaths and injuries only exacerbated the many problems facing workers in this era. The final part of this thesis incorporates statistical information into the text strengthening and supporting the premise of this work. In the case of the Chicago Strike, this major disruption only served to deepen the depression and expand class hatreds. The period of the late 1890s was a time of immense social change and upheaval. This work attempts to capture the spirit of the age.