Be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine. – Romans 1:12
The Coal Strike of 1902, also known as the anthracite coal strike, officially came to an end on this day in 1902. Beginning May 12 of that year, approximately 147,000 coal miners, led by the United Mine Workers of America, went on strike for better pay and improved working conditions. President Theodore Roosevelt intervened in the dispute due to concerns over potential fuel shortages as the winter months approached. After weeks of negotiations, a compromise was reached, known as the “Gentlemen’s Agreement of 1902.” The agreement provided for a 10 percent wage increase, a reduction in the working day from 10 to nine hours, and established a commission to address future labor disputes in the coal industry. The strike’s resolution was a turning point in U.S. labor history as the power of collective action by workers and the influence of labor unions became evident.
As the Lord leads, pray with us…
- For Acting Secretary Julie Su to be prudent as she heads the Labor Department.
- For the president and administration officials as they support organized labor.
