Politics and Economy in the History of the US Working Class

The US working class has a long and complex history, shaped by economic, political, and social forces.

The Colonial Era

In the colonial era, the working class was composed of indentured servants, slaves, and free laborers. Indentured servants were typically young people who agreed to work for a period of time in exchange for their passage to America. Slaves were forced to work for life, and their children were also slaves. Free laborers were paid for their work, but they had few rights and were often exploited by their employers.

Prisoners of the American Dream: Politics and Economy in the History of the US Working Class

by Mike Davis

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1250 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	334 pages

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The Early Republic

The early republic saw the rise of the factory system, which led to a new class of industrial workers.

These workers were often poorly paid and worked long hours in dangerous conditions. They also faced discrimination and violence from their employers and the government. In response, workers began to organize and form unions to fight for their rights.

The Civil War and Reconstruction

The Civil War and Reconstruction had a profound impact on the US working class. The war led to the abolition of slavery, which freed millions of African Americans. Reconstruction saw the passage of laws designed to protect the rights of freedmen, but these laws were often not enforced. As a result, African Americans continued to face discrimination and violence. The working class also faced new challenges during Reconstruction, as the South's economy was devastated by the war.

The Late 19th Century

The late 19th century saw the rise of big business and the growth of the labor movement. Big businesses often used their power to exploit workers, leading to widespread strikes and protests. The labor movement fought for better wages, hours, and working conditions. It also fought for the right to organize and bargain collectively.

The 20th Century

The 20th century was a time of great change for the US working class. The Great Depression of the 1930s led to widespread unemployment and poverty. The New Deal programs of President Franklin D. Roosevelt helped to provide relief to workers, but they also led to the growth of the federal government.

World War II led to a boom in the economy and a decline in unemployment. After the war, the US entered a period of prosperity known as the "Golden Age." During this time, the working class enjoyed rising wages and benefits. However, the Golden Age came to an end in the 1970s, as the US economy began to decline.

The Present

The US working class faces new challenges in the 21st century. The decline of manufacturing jobs has led to a loss of income and status for many workers. The rise of the service economy has created new jobs, but these jobs often pay less and offer fewer benefits than manufacturing jobs. The working class also faces challenges from globalization, as companies move jobs overseas to take advantage of cheaper labor costs.

Politics and Economy in the History of the US Working Class

The political and economic history of the US working class is a story of struggle and progress. Workers have fought for their rights and improved their lives through organization and collective action. The labor movement has played a key role in shaping the US economy and political system.

This book tells the story of the US working class from its beginnings in the colonial era to the present day. It examines the economic and political forces that have shaped the working class, and it explores the struggles and achievements of workers over time.

The US working class is a diverse and dynamic group of people who have played a vital role in the history of the United States. Workers have fought for their rights and improved their lives through organization and collective action. The labor movement has played a key role in shaping the US economy and political system.

This book is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the history of the US working class. It is a comprehensive and engaging account of the struggles and achievements of workers over time.

Prisoners of the American Dream: Politics and Economy in the History of the US Working Class

by Mike Davis

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1250 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	334 pages

FREE