Today in Labor History—August 27

1917 Australian General Strike, from Red Wombat Hole

August 27, 1917 -- The IWW was made illegal in Australia and their membership rolls were made available to employers, leading to widespread repression. Despite all this, the IWW helped lead the General Strike of 1917 (Click here for footage of the strike). (From the Daily Bleed)

August 27, 1934 – Filipino lettuce cutters and mainly white packing shed workers struck the powerful Salinas Valley growers and shippers, demanding union recognition & improved conditions. (From the Daily Bleed)

 

 August 27, 1950-- President Truman ordered the U.S. army to seize all the railroads to prevent a General Strike. They were held by the military for the next two years. (From Workday Minnesota)