The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire

The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire occurred on March 25, 1911, in New York City, claiming the lives of 146 workers, mostly young immigrant women. The factory was on the top floors of a building, and escape routes were locked or inadequate, preventing workers from escaping the flames. The tragedy highlighted the dangerous working conditions in factories at that time and led to public outrage, prompting significant reforms in labor laws and workplace safety regulations. This event is often seen as a pivotal moment in the labor rights movement, emphasizing the need for improved safety standards and workers' protections.