Labor Unrest: Madison Ave. Protest circa 1915

This striking photograph from between 1915 and 1920 captures a moment of labor unrest at the intersection of Madison Avenue and 70th Street in New York City. Taken by a photographer from the Bain News Service, the image depicts a strike blockade—a scene emblematic of the growing demands for workers rights during this tumultuous period in American history. The early 20th century was marked by significant labor movements, as workers organized for better wages, hours, and conditions.

In this moment, we see the impact of collective action, as workers stood together in protest, highlighting the struggles faced by many Americans. This blockade at a bustling urban intersection serves as a stark reminder of the challenges and determination that defined labor activism in the early 1900s. It’s a snapshot of a pivotal time when the fight for workers rights was gaining momentum, ultimately shaping labor laws and practices in the years to come.