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Memorial Day Massacre

Republic Steel Strike, 1937
On May 30, 1937, striking Republic Steel workers and sympathizers attempted to establish a picket line at the front of the mill on Chicago's Southeast Side. The protesting marchers, including families from the surrounding community, halted when met by a line of Chicago police officers in a field north of the mill gate. Following a short standoff, violence erupted; 10 protesters died and approximately 90 were injured while retreating from police clubs, tear gas, and bullets. The episode stands as one of the most violent in the history of U.S. labor organization.

Jonathan J. Keyes

Bibliography

The Electronic Encyclopedia of Chicago © 2005 Chicago Historical Society.
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