A general strike is a coordinated national, regional, or municipal work stoppage aiming to pressure management or government into agreeing to contract terms, resolving an unsettled grievance, or recognizing a union. This action is typically executed by most organized workers within a given area and is relatively rare in certain countries, such as the United States.
Historical Context of General Strikes
Origins and Early Instances
The concept of a general strike emerged in the 19th century alongside the rise of industrial capitalism. Early instances were often rooted in demands for better working conditions, fair wages, and shorter working hours.
Prominent Historical General Strikes
- Seattle General Strike (1919): One of the most notable general strikes in U.S. history, involving over 65,000 workers.
- French General Strikes (1968): In May 1968, a series of strikes in France brought the country to a standstill, profoundly impacting French society.
Characteristics and Types of General Strikes
Characteristics
- Broad Participation: Involves multiple unions and a significant percentage of the workforce.
- Specific Objectives: Aims to address specific issues such as wage increases, working conditions, or political change.
- Short Duration: Typically designed to exert immediate pressure, though duration can vary.
Types
National General Strikes
Involve workers from various industries across the entire country, often addressing nationwide issues such as labor laws or pension reforms.
Regional General Strikes
Confined to a particular region, these strikes often target regional governments or industries with significant local impact.
Municipal General Strikes
These occur within a specific municipality and may focus on local governance or city-specific labor grievances.
Applicability and Modern Examples
Contemporary Relevance
While less common in some regions, general strikes remain a powerful tool for labor movements in advocating for workers’ rights and social justice globally.
Recent Instances
- Spain (2012): A general strike was called in response to austerity measures and labor reforms.
- Greece (2015): Multiple general strikes protested against economic conditions and government policies during the financial crisis.
Related Terms
- Strike: A temporary stoppage of work by employees to press for demands.
- Lockout: An action taken by employers to prevent workers from entering the workplace during a dispute.
- Industrial Action: Collective measures taken by workers to enforce demands.
- Collective Bargaining: Negotiation process between employers and a group of employees aimed at reaching agreements.
FAQs
What differentiates a general strike from a regular strike?
Why are general strikes rare in the United States?
Are general strikes legal?
References
- Encyclopaedia Britannica. (n.d.). General Strike. Retrieved from Encyclopaedia Britannica.
- Tilly, C. (1978). From Mobilization to Revolution. McGraw-Hill.
- Hyman, R. (1972). Strikes. Fontana.
Summary
A general strike is a powerful labor action characterized by widespread work stoppage across industries to address specific demands of employees. Its historical significance and contemporary relevance underscore its role in shaping labor relations and advocating for workers’ rights. Despite its infrequency in some regions, it remains a critical tool in the global labor movement.
