Historic Labor Strikes in Early 20th Century Bayonne

The photograph titled Strikers in action, Bayonne captures a pivotal moment in the labor movement in the early 20th century, specifically between 1910 and 1915. Shot by a photographer from the Bain News Service, this image documents workers actively participating in a strike in Bayonne, New Jersey. During this era, many labor strikes occurred across the United States as workers rallied for better wages, working conditions, and recognition of their rights. This period was marked by significant social change as labor unions began to gain traction and advocate for the working class.

The visual urgency of strikers in action reflects the wider context of labor unrest during this time. The early 1900s saw intense struggles between laborers and employers, often resulting in confrontations and negotiations that would shape workplace policies for decades to come. Bayonne, a key industrial hub, became a battleground for these labor contests. This image not only serves as a historical record of those tumultuous times but also illustrates the collective determination of workers advocating for their rights in an era devoid of the labor protections we see today.