30,000 locked out : $b the great strike of the building trades in Chicago

"30,000 Locked Out: The Great Strike of the Building Trades in Chicago" by James C. Beeks is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book chronicles a major labor dispute involving the building trades in Chicago, highlighting the tensions between workers and employers regarding conditions of labor, individual liberties, and union activities. It delves into the complex dynamics of labor relations during a critical period of industrial history, offering insights into the variety of perspectives held by different stakeholders in the conflict. The opening of the book sets the stage for understanding the labor movement in Chicago. It begins with an examination of the central issue at hand—individual liberty within the workforce—while discussing the various factors leading to this significant strike. Beeks reflects on prior incidents of labor unrest, the evolving relationship between employers and employees, and the specific demands that sparked the labor action. The introduction also raises the clarity of the resolutions passed by unions, specifically regarding pay schedules and membership exclusivities, which highlight the intense struggles workers faced in negotiating their rights and the often arbitrary nature of union leadership over the rank-and-file laborers. The stakes are framed not just in terms of wages, but in the broader implications for personal freedoms and the future of industry standards.