DailyTimeCapsule brief
April 15, 1937
On April 15, 1937, a significant labor conflict erupted in Detroit when police used tear gas to disperse approximately 150 striking workers, predominantly women, who were locked up following a raid in compliance with a court order. The sit-down strike reflected growing tensions in the labor movement amidst the backdrop of the Great Depression, where workers sought better wages and conditions. Across the nation, discussions around labor rights were intensifying, while the economic landscape remained challenging. Concurrently, Max Yergan was proposed for a new college post, indicating a recognition of African American contributions in academia. Internationally, the Director of the World Labor Conference raised concerns regarding extraterritoriality impacting Chinese mill workers, emphasizing the global dimensions of labor struggles.
Key developments
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On April 15, 1937, police used tear gas to break up a sit-down strike in Detroit, resulting in the arrest of approximately 150 demonstrators, most of whom were women. The strike was in response to labor disputes and was met with a court order against the protesting workers. This event highlighted the ongoing struggles for workers' rights and labor organization during a tumultuous period in American history.
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In April 1937, Max Yergan was recommended for a position on the faculty at the City College of New York (CCNY). This marked a significant moment in the inclusion of African American scholars in higher education. Yergan was noted for his contributions to education and civil rights, reflecting the broader social changes of the era.
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PLEADS FOR WORKERS IN CHINESE MILLS; Director of World Labor Conference Holds Extraterritoriality a Factor