Ep 7. Triangle Fire

On March 25, 1911, a devastating fire broke out in the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in New York City. The fire quickly spread, trapping over 100 workers, mostly young women and girls, inside the building. In the end, 146 people lost their lives in what would become one of the deadliest industrial disasters in American history.

The American Experience Season 23 Episode 7, titled "Triangle Fire," explores this tragic event and its impact on America's labor movement.

Through interviews with historians and eyewitnesses, as well as archival footage and photographs, the episode provides a detailed account of the events leading up to the fire and its aftermath. Viewers will learn about the working conditions inside the Triangle Factory, which were notoriously dangerous and exploitative. Workers were paid low wages, required to work long hours in cramped and overcrowded spaces, and had almost no access to safety equipment or training.

The episode also explores the broader social and political context of the Triangle Fire. At the time, New York City was home to a large and growing population of immigrants, many of whom worked in garment factories like Triangle. These workers faced discrimination and prejudice from the larger society, as well as exploitation by their employers.

Despite these challenges, many workers began to organize and fight for better working conditions and wages. The American labor movement was in its infancy, and the Triangle Fire would become a rallying cry for worker's rights.

The episode examines the response to the fire from government officials, activists, and the general public. There was widespread outrage and grief at the loss of life, and many demanded that something be done to prevent similar disasters in the future.

Ultimately, the Triangle Fire led to sweeping changes in labor laws and workplace safety regulations. It also galvanized the labor movement, paving the way for future victories for workers' rights.

The American Experience Season 23 Episode 7 is a powerful retelling of one of America's most tragic events. It sheds light on the struggles of workers in the early 20th century and the impact of their activism on American society as a whole. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in labor history and social justice.