Vievia Kim
Table of Contents
Demonstration in Chicago (1886), known as the “Haymarket Affair“, was an important event in the history of the international labor movement. This demonstration became a symbol of workers’ resistance to exploitation and injustice, as well as their struggle to obtain better rights.
The factors behind the demonstrations in Chicago
The following are several factors behind the demonstrations in Chicago:
1. Long Hours and Poor Working Conditions:
At that time, workers in the United States had to work 10-16 hours per day for low wages and in unsafe working conditions. They often become victims of work accidents and illnesses due to working in an unhealthy environment.
2. Growing Labor Movement:
In the late 19th century, the labor movement in the United States began to grow rapidly. Workers began to organize and demand their rights, such as reduced working hours, increased wages, and safer working conditions.
3. 8 Hour Work Demand:
In 1884, the American Federation of Labor (AFL) called a national strike on May 1, 1886 to demand a reduction in working hours to 8 hours per day. This demand is known as the “eight hour movement”.
4. Suspense and Violence:
Towards May 1, 1886, there was tension between the workers and the police. On May 3, clashes occurred between police and demonstrators at the McCormick Reaper Works, resulting in several injuries.
5. Haymarket Tragedy:
On May 4, 1886, a peaceful rally was held in Haymarket Square to protest the events at the McCormick Reaper Works. However, the rally turned into a riot after a bomb explosion killed several people, including police.
The Impact of Demonstrations in Chicago
The Chicago Demonstration had a significant impact on the international labor movement:
- Increased Awareness : The Haymarket incident increased public awareness about poor working conditions and workers’ struggles.
- Suppression of the Labor Movement : As a result of the Haymarket Affair, there was suppression of the labor movement in the United States. Several labor leaders were executed, and many other labor activists were arrested and imprisoned.
- Birth of International Workers’ Day : As a form of solidarity with workers in Chicago, May 1 was designated as International Workers’ Day.
Although the Chicago Demonstration was suppressed, it remains an important moment in the history of the labor movement and continues to inspire the struggle of workers around the world for better rights.
