Books Like...
Philip Dray's book 'There Is Power in a Union: The Epic Story of Labor in America' delves into the history of the American labor movement, highlighting the struggles and sacrifices made by workers to combat the greed and corruption of big businesses. The narrative is filled with vivid retellings of key events such as the Lowell factories, the Haymarket Massacre, the Pullman Strikes, and the Triangle Shirtwaist Company fire, as well as important figures like Eugene V. Debs, Mother Jones, and Jimmy Hoffa. Dray's writing style paints a compelling picture of the violent past of the labor movement, showcasing the personal courage, sacrifice, and farcical trials that have shaped the fight for workers' rights in America.
The book also sheds light on the connections between labor movements, social justice, and civil rights, emphasizing the importance of unions in advocating for better working conditions and benefits for workers. Through detailed research and exhaustive writing on topics like the battle of Blair Mountain and the federal government's offensives against labor racketeering, Dray presents a comprehensive overview of the struggles faced by American workers from the nineteenth century onwards, making it a must-read for those interested in understanding the historical significance of labor in America.
If you liked There Is Power in a Union: The Epic Story of Labor in America, here are the top 40 books to read next:
- #1
Save:'The Age of Acquiescence: The Life and Death of American Resistance to Organized Wealth and Power' by Steve Fraser delves into the contrast between the first gilded age, known for active left resistance, and the current 'age of acquiescence,' where the American left has seemingly lost its voice. Fraser discusses how the working class has acquiesced to the power of capital and moneyed interests, leading to widening inequalities. also explores the shift from an era of egalitarian class struggle to one where unemployment is accepted as a norm, consumer culture shapes identity, and the trade union movement weakens.
When the railroad threatened to come to Lancaster, Ohio, back in the mid-1840s, the local school board greeted the prospect as a looming moral disaster. The board refused to make its building availabl... Fight Like Hell: The Untold History of American Labor by Kim Kelly explores the labor movement in the United States through a fresh and inclusive perspective. Kelly highlights the stories of marginalized communities and emphasizes the intersectionality that has been a core part of labor struggles since their inception. The book is organized by industry rather than traditional historical timelines, making it accessible to readers and emphasizing that these labor challenges resonate across various sectors and time periods.
Kelly's writing style is engaging and straightforward, making complex topics easy to understand. She combines historical narratives with personal stories to inspire readers about the importance of labor rights today. Though it includes critical views on systemic issues like sexism and racism within the labor movement, the overall tone is positive and motivating. This book serves as both a primer for newcomers to labor history and a deep dive for those already familiar with the subject.
'Dynamite: The Story of Class Violence in America' by Louis Adamic delves into the history of labor struggles and class violence in America. Adamic portrays the shortcomings of labor leaders and the desperate side of the labor struggle, shedding light on the exploitation faced by the working class. He highlights the violence instigated by monopolists and Big Business against labor organizers, and the unjust legal system that favored the interests of the wealthy.
Adamic's writing style is described as well-researched and easy to read, making the book a compelling narrative of the struggles faced by the working class. covers various historical events, such as strikes, riots, and labor-related trials, offering a detailed account of the challenges and injustices endured by laborers in America.
- #4
Save:In effect, the Columbus iron rollers had subcontracted the entire job from their employer. Unlike many other subcontracting workers of that time, however, they had taken the contract as a group, not a...By studying the ways in which American industrial workers mobilized concerted action in their own interest, the author focuses on the workplace itself, examining the codes of conduct developed by different types of workers and the connections between
... - #5
Save:Set in Spokane and other parts of the Northwest, 'The Cold Millions' by Jess Walter is a historical novel following the lives of two brothers, Gig and Rye, as they navigate the labor movement in the early 1900s. Gig, the older brother, is involved with the IWW while Rye, the younger one, is just trying to survive and find stability. The book weaves together real historical events and characters, such as Elizabeth Gurley Flynn, with fictional elements, showcasing the struggles for workers' rights and the societal divide between the rich and the poor.
The novel delves into themes of labor unrest, police brutality, corruption, and the fight for justice during a tumultuous time in American history. Through the perspectives of multiple characters, including the Dolan brothers and real-life figures like Elizabeth Gurley Flynn, the book explores the complexities of the labor movement and the sacrifices made by those involved.
They woke on a ball field—bums, tramps, hobos, stiffs. Two dozen of them spread out on bedrolls and blankets in a narrow floodplain just below the skid, past taverns, tanners, and tents, shotgun shack... - #6
Save:'A History of America in Ten Strikes' by Erik Loomis is a well-researched account of the history of the labor movement in the United States. The book delves into the significant strikes that shaped the working class, while also discussing broader issues affecting Americans at the time. Loomis highlights the struggles of working men and women uniting to improve their working conditions and personal lives, against the backdrop of the general narrative of US history. The author emphasizes the importance of unions representing the interests of workers and electing officials who support those interests through legislation.
When Christopher Columbus stumbled across the Americas in 1492, he had specific ideas about work, who would do it, and who would benefit. So did the European nations that followed him: Spain and Portu... 'Many Are the Crimes: McCarthyism in America' by Ellen Schrecker delves into the era of McCarthyism, starting around 1940 and extending for almost two decades. The author explores the relentless search for Communists and leftists, the exaggerated security threats, and the unyielding suppression of political dissent during this period. Schrecker provides a wide-ranging look at the politically repressive atmosphere of McCarthyism, highlighting the societal-wide assault on American ideals of freedom of thought, speech, and assembly. chronicles the impact of McCarthyism on various aspects of American society, from Hollywood to labor unions, and examines the personal toll on individuals who were pursued and persecuted by investigative bodies.
The author's writing style is detailed and informative, offering a chronological narrative that roams freely across the era to describe specific aspects of the anti-communism movement. Schrecker provides insights into the broader implications of McCarthyism, beyond the mere factual details of investigating committees and legislation. sheds light on the role of the FBI in investigating claims of Communist membership and the tactics used to suppress political dissent, painting a vivid picture of the era of McCarthyism and its lasting impact on American society.
"The Women of the Copper Country" by Mary Doria Russell is a historical fiction novel set in Calumet, Michigan, during the 1913 miners strike. The story follows Annie Clements, a strong female leader who organizes and leads the women of Copper Country in support of the miners' union. The book vividly describes the harsh conditions in the copper mines, the struggles faced by the miners and their families, and the brutal resistance to organized labor in the early 20th century. Through multiple perspectives, the author brings to life the courage, endurance, and sacrifices of those involved in the labor movement.
The birds disappeared when the forests went underground. There is no dawn chorus, no melodious robin-song, no cheerful cardinal-chant to greet the brightening sky. It is the first pink flush of light ...- #9
Save:'The Utopia of Rules: On Technology, Stupidity, and the Secret Joys of Bureaucracy' by David Graeber is a collection of essays that delve into the sociological analysis of bureaucracy, politics, and even touch on topics like Batman and superheroes. Graeber explores the power of organizations to create efficiencies while also highlighting the mindless adherence to rules that can reduce people to stupidity. Through his writing, Graeber challenges conventional thinking about bureaucracy and its impact on modern society, touching on themes like the tension between imagination and structure, the myth of progress, and the pervasive nature of bureaucracy in our daily lives.
In 2006, my mother had a series of strokes. It soon became obvious that she would eventually be incapable of living at home without assistance. Since her insurance would not cover home care, a series ... - We were the slaves in Pharaoh's land You and he and I, And we were serfs to feudal hands Now that times gone by. Prentices in cities, prisoners for debt. Hunted vagrants, parish poor, Our life is a li...
A groundbreaking contribution to the history of the "long Civil Rights movement," Hammer and Hoe tells the story of how, during the 1930s and 40s, Communists took on Alabama's repressive, racist police state to fight for economic justice, civil and
...
