Seattle General Strike

The Seattle General Strike of 1919 was a major labor event where thousands of workers across various industries in Seattle stopped working to demand better conditions, wages, and hours. It lasted for about a week and was organized by local labor unions, inspired by the broader post-World War I labor unrest. Although it was peaceful and involved no violence, the strike caused widespread disruption and drew national attention. Authorities and business leaders viewed it as a threat to order, fearing communist influence. The strike ultimately ended with workers returning to their jobs, but it highlighted the growing power and influence of organized labor in the U.S.