Ep 12. The Uprising of '34
In POV season 13 episode 12, titled "The Uprising of '34," viewers are taken on a journey through history as the episode explores the little-known story of a textile workers' strike in 1934 that touched off a sequence of events leading to the emergence of one of America's first labor unions.
The episode focuses particularly on the workers at the Loray Mill in Gastonia, North Carolina, who were fed up with poor working conditions, long hours, and low pay. They formed a union and quickly became embroiled in a struggle with management, which escalated into a full-blown strike that saw clashes with police and the National Guard, as well as the involvement of larger labor organizations.
Through powerful archival footage and interviews with experts and descendants of those involved in the strike, the episode paints a vivid picture of the tumultuous times and the dedication and courage of the workers who risked everything for change. It also explores the ways in which the strike had a ripple effect that reverberated throughout the state and beyond, inspiring other workers to take action and setting the stage for the growth of the labor movement in the United States.
"The Uprising of '34" provides a captivating and thought-provoking deep-dive into a key moment in American labor history that is often overlooked, offering a window into the struggles and triumphs of working people fighting for their rights and dignity. Whether you're a history buff, a labor advocate, or simply curious about the past, this episode is sure to leave a lasting impact on your understanding of the social and economic forces that shape our world.
