Strike action

The Right to Strike

Theodor Kittelsen Streik 1879

Il cosiddetto 'Papiro dello sciopero' scritto da Amunnakht Recto

Strike action, often simply called a strike, is a work stoppage caused by the mass refusal of employees to work. A strike usually takes place in response to employee grievances. Strikes became common during the Industrial Revolution, when mass labor became important in factories and mines. Today, strikes are a common form of protest in many industries across the world.

History

The history of strike action dates back to the Industrial Revolution, when the rapid expansion of industrial society saw a significant increase in the number of workers in factories and mines. The first recorded strike occurred in 1768 when New York journeymen tailors protested a wage reduction. The 19th century saw a surge in strike actions across Europe and North America, as workers sought better conditions, shorter hours, and higher pay. Notable strikes from this period include the 1842 General Strike in England, which spread across various industries, and the 1894 Pullman Strike in the United States, which had a significant impact on the labor movement in America.

Causes

Strike action can be prompted by various grievances, including but not limited to:

• Poor working conditions
• Low wages
• Long hours
• Disputes over contract terms
• Political reasons
• Solidarity with other striking workers

Types of Strikes

There are several types of strikes, including:

• General Strike: A widespread strike action that involves multiple industries and sectors at the same time.
• Wildcat Strike: A strike action taken by workers without the authorization of their union.
• Sit-down Strike: Where workers physically occupy their place of employment but refuse to work.
• Sympathy Strike: A strike by workers in one industry or workplace in support of a strike by workers in another.

Legality

The legality of strike action varies significantly from country to country. In some nations, strikes are fully legal and protected by law, while in others, they may be restricted or even illegal. Laws may also differentiate between different types of strikes, with some forms being more legally acceptable than others.

Impact

The impact of a strike can vary. Strikes can lead to improved conditions and higher wages for workers, but they can also result in job losses if companies decide to relocate or close. Strikes can disrupt economies, particularly if they involve key sectors or are prolonged.

Notable Strikes

• The 1912 Lawrence Textile Strike, also known as the Bread and Roses Strike, which was significant for its scale and the involvement of women.
• The 1984-1985 UK Miners' Strike, which was a major industrial action affecting the British coal industry.
• The 2016 Verizon Strike, one of the largest strikes in the US in recent years, involving nearly 40,000 workers.

See Also

• Labor union
• Collective bargaining
• Industrial action
• Lockout (labor)