Use your chart to write a letter from the point of view of a participant in the Pullman Strike. Your letter should explain why you participated and evaluate the effectiveness of the methods used. Use the text below to write your letter. Consider both union actions and the responses of factory owners and the government to union actions.

Question

causes The Pullman Strike was caused by the dire economic conditions and starvation faced by workers in the Pullman Company despite their contributions to its wealth, compounded by the company's refusal to negotiate with employees or relieve their suffering.

effects The Pullman Strike prompted federal intervention as President Cleveland sent troops to quell the unrest this resulted in significant financial losses for both railroads and striking workers, while public sympathy was lost amid concerns over violence and disrupted rail services.

Answer 1

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP]
[Date]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

I hope this letter finds you in good health and spirits. As a participant in the recent Pullman Strike, I feel compelled to share my thoughts and experiences during this trying time. Our struggle was born out of desperation, thrust upon us by the harsh realities of our working conditions. Despite the wealth we helped create for the Pullman Company, we were met with starvation wages and an unwillingness from management to engage with us or alleviate our suffering. It was this inequity that led many of us to take a stand.

We initially sought change through peaceful negotiation, hoping to reach a reasonable compromise with the company’s owners. However, their refusal to listen to our plight left us with no other option but to strike. I joined my fellow workers not only as a means to advocate for better wages and working conditions but also to maintain our dignity. Our actions were a collective cry for justice and respect—values that we believed were rightfully ours.

Unfortunately, as our strike gained momentum, it drew the attention of authorities and led to unprecedented federal intervention. President Cleveland's decision to send in troops to break our strike was both disheartening and alarming. It escalated the situation and resulted in violence, which further complicated our cause. Public sympathy seemed to evaporate as fear of unrest grew, overshadowing the legitimate grievances we had brought to the forefront.

Reflecting on our methods, I believe that our decision to strike was effective in drawing attention to our plight. It revealed the stark division between labor and management, highlighting the desperate conditions workers faced. However, the strength of our message was ultimately undermined by the violent outcomes and the government’s heavy-handed response. The disruption of rail services, which affected so many in our community, caused many to view us as a threat rather than as victims of an unjust system.

In conclusion, while our methods of organizing and taking collective action were necessary, the consequences we faced—both from the authorities and the public perception—diminished our cause. It is evident that we must find new ways to amplify our voices that do not lead to the kind of violence we witnessed. I remain hopeful that our struggle will not be in vain, and future efforts will lead to the reforms we desperately need.

Thank you for taking the time to hear my experience. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on our fight for justice.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]