Britannica
Sources used in this answer
What working conditions did Pullman workers protest in 1894?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
Pullman Strike
A shantytown on the lakefront in Chicago during the Pullman Strike and general economic downturn of 1893β94.
In 1894, workers at the Pullman Palace Car Company protested several harsh working and living conditions that arose during the economic depression that began in 1893.12
The primary grievances included:
- Wage Cuts and Layoffs: The company reduced wages by 25 percent and laid off more than 2,000 workers to lower costs, while continuing to pay dividends to stockholders.12
- Increased Working Hours: In addition to wage reductions, the company increased working hours for the remaining employees.2
- Unchanged Costs of Living: Despite the significant drop in income, the company refused to lower rents or the prices of goods and utilities in the company town of Pullman, where many workers were required to live.12
- Lack of Representation: When a delegation of workers attempted to present these grievances to company president George M. Pullman, he refused to meet with them and ordered the committee members to be fired, which ultimately triggered the Pullman Strike.12