1909 Pressed Steel Strike: Police Arrest Protestor

This historical photograph captures a pivotal moment in the Pressed Steel strike of 1909, showing the arrest of a striker named Pitt by police. The backdrop is an era marked by significant labor unrest, as workers across industries demanded better wages, hours, and conditions. This image is particularly notable as it illustrates the tension between law enforcement and striking workers, a common theme during the early 20th century when industrial strikes frequently led to confrontations.

On September 22, 1919, the event documented in this photograph reflects the escalating struggles faced by laborers. Police involvement in strikes often signified the state’s alignment with business interests, underscoring the challenges faced by workers fighting for their rights amid a rapidly industrializing America. Such images serve as important historical records, highlighting moments that shaped labor relations and the landscape of American capitalism during this transformative period.