The Ludlow Massacre

Although people have been taking a stand for what was right throughout history all around the world, none have affected the area of Southern Colorado as much as the events that took place at the Ludlow Mine Camp. Driven to stand against the rich mine owners, a small group fought and died for labor rights that are still in place an impacting workers today. While rich businessmen put the value of a load of coal or even a mule over that of a working man, the events that would come to be known as the Ludlow Massacre show how a small group can make a lasting change by standing up for what they believe. In the early 1900's coal was a very important resource and was used for almost everything. Coal was used to power railroads that joined the East
Money was the main reason for improvements in the mine and the safety and concerns of miners were less important. The miners had begun to lose there jobs because of the mechanization. They no longer needed to have people digging for coal because the machines did all the work for them. These machines had taken over the industry. Because the machines could produce more coal in a shorter time, the amount of money paid per ton of coal dropped. The quality of life of the minors and their families dropped as well. The majority of the miners jobs had been taken and others had quit because of the reduced pay. In the months that followed, over 1,200 miners that went on strike including there families. Men, women, and children stood together in protest. The United Mine Worker of America was formed and the miners began to stand up as a group. They demanded that their union be recognized. Their demands were narrowed down to seven. First, they demanded recognition of the union. Second they had a ten percent increase in wages. Third, was that they each had to work eight hour days. Fourth, was that instead of getting paid for what they brought they'd get paid for just getting the load ready. Fifth, they would elect people to check the weight of the bags. Sixth, is the right to trade in any store, board anyway, and hire the services of any doctor. Seven, the enforcement of Colorado mining laws
While he was away, guards began to put guns in position around the tent village. When Tikas returned he had seen the guns in place he moved his men to the side of the gun positions and the battle began. By the end of the day, as many as 20 people were dead. Not only was Tikas shot to death, and left on display, several women and children were killed. Four women and eleven children were killed when they were hiding in an underground room underneath their burning tent. The lives of these innocent women and children brought national attention to the issue. When little was done following the "Ludlow Massacre" as it would be called, miners throughout the region attacked and destroyed mine property. The battle between the unionized minors and the mine company was finally ended when President Woodrow Wilson sent in Federal troops to disarm both