Today in Labor History—March 17

During the mid-1800s, thousands of Irish emigrated to the U.S., fleeing religious and political persecution and poverty in their native country. Once here, they faced severe discrimination, including employment notices stating “No Irish Need Apply.” Many Irish workers turned to the labor movement for support and union membership grew thanks to Irish leadership and determination. (From Workday Minnesota)

Stop! Whoever Proceeds Will Be Shot. (From Wikipedia)

March 17, 1920 – A General Strike  in Germany help defeat the Kapp Putsch. (From the Daily Bleed)

Bolshevik Assault On Kronstadt Mutineers (from Wikipedia)

March 17, 1921 – The Kronstadt mutiny was defeated by the Bolshevik’s on this date under the direction of Trotsky, who boasted he would "shoot them like pigeons." He was not exaggerating, resulting in a terrible slaughter. (From the Daily Bleed)

March 17, 1966 – César Chávez & the National Farm Workers Association marched from Delano to Sacramento, California, from March 17 to April 11, arriving on Easter Sunday. (From the Daily Bleed)

March 17, 1996 – 30,000 marched in Villahermosa, Mexico, in support of a campaign to blockade state-owned oil wells that displace thousands of poor people. (From the Daily Bleed)