Strikebreaking and Intimidation: Mercenaries and Masculinity in Twentieth-Century America : Book Review

"Strikebreaking and Intimidation" by Stephen H. Norwood presents a comprehensive analysis of the tactics employers and anti-union forces have used to undermine workers' rights and suppress labor movements throughout American history. The book delves into the strategies employed by these opposing forces, offering a detailed exploration of strikebreaking and intimidation.

Norwood begins by examining the late 19th century, a time marked by violent clashes between striking workers and the strikebreakers hired by employers. Through extensive research, he provides a thorough account of these confrontations, shedding light on the methods strikebreakers utilized to achieve their objectives.

Moving on to intimidation, Norwood highlights numerous instances where employers have resorted to threats, harassment, and violence to discourage workers from organizing and fighting for improved working conditions. By presenting a range of examples, he effectively illustrates how intimidation has been used as a tool to suppress labor movements.

The author does not limit his analysis to the past but also discusses contemporary events and ongoing challenges faced by labor movements. He explores topics such as the criminalization of strikes and the use of legal strategies to diminish the power of unions and disenfranchise workers.

Norwood's work is supported by a wealth of primary sources and scholarly analysis, presenting readers with a well-researched and nuanced perspective. His writing style is engaging and accessible, catering to both academics and general readers interested in the history of labor and workers' rights.

What are readers saying?

Strikebreaking and Intimidation, written by Stephen H. Norwood, delves into the contentious history of strikebreaking in the United States. This well-researched and informative book has garnered positive reviews, offering readers a comprehensive overview of the darker side of labor relations in America.

Readers praise Norwood's thorough research and his in-depth examination of strikebreaking, finding it engaging and enlightening. The book covers a wide range of industries and historical periods, providing a wealth of evidence and examples to support Norwood's arguments. The attention to detail in the book is highly appreciated by readers.

Norwood's writing style is described as clear, concise, and accessible. It makes it easy for readers to follow along and understand the complex subject matter. Reviewers laud Norwood's ability to convey historical events and their significance in a compelling manner.

One notable aspect that stands out for many readers is Norwood's balanced approach to the subject. While strikebreaking is commonly seen as negative, the book presents a nuanced perspective that considers the motivations and experiences of both strikers and strikebreakers. This thoughtful analysis adds depth to the historical context and enriches readers' understanding.

Despite the overall positive reception, some critics believe the book could have included more analysis of the long-term effects of strikebreaking on labor relations and society as a whole. Additionally, a few reviewers suggest that the book would benefit from the inclusion of more personal anecdotes or case studies to further illustrate the impact of strikebreaking.

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