The Birth of the IWW: The 1905 Chicago Conference

Name: The Birth of the IWW: The 1905 Chicago Conference
Start: 1905-01-02
Location: Unspecified

The 1905 Chicago Conference: A Turning Point for Labor

Origin of the Industrial Union Manifesto

In June 1905, twenty-three prominent industrial trade unionists gathered in Chicago, Illinois, marking a historical moment in the labor movement with the issuance of the Industrial Union Manifesto. This significant document outlined the need for a new approach to labor organization, emphasizing the reclamation of worker power and unity under a single industrial union structure.

Key Figures in the Conference

The conference featured influential labor leaders like Big Bill Haywood, the secretary-treasurer of the Western Federation of Miners, and Eugene V. Debs, a fervent advocate for socialist policies. Their involvement represented a coalition of labor activists committed to advancing the rights and conditions of workers across various industries.

The Vision and Goals of the IWW

Formation of a New Labor Union

The impending establishment of the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) was rooted in an inclusive philosophy. Unlike the craft unions that were dominant at the time, the IWW sought to unite all workers—regardless of skill, race, or job type—under the banner of industrial unionism. This holistic approach inspired a new wave of labor activism.

A Convention Set for June

The conference laid the groundwork for the upcoming convention scheduled for June 1905, where further discussions and strategies would take place. This convention would ultimately solidify the IWW's foundational principles, aiming to empower workers to fight for better wages, benefits, and working conditions.

Fun Fact

Legacy of the IWW

The legacy of the IWW continues to resonate today. Known for their radical campaigns like the "Bread and Roses" strike, the IWW was pivotal in advocating the rights of all workers, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and direct action.