Coxey's Army Marches to Washington, D.C.

March 25th, 1894

March 25th, 1894

Coxey's Army Marches to Washington, D.C.
How Long Ago?

130 years, 11 months, 18 days ago

Location

Massillon, Ohio, United States

Category

Social Movements & Civil Rights

People
  • Jacob Coxey
Links & References
Tags

Coxey's Army Marches to Washington, D.C.

Coxey's Army was a protest march organized by Jacob Coxey, a businessman from Ohio, demanding government action to alleviate unemployment during the economic depression. Departing from Massillon, Ohio, it aimed to reach Washington, D.C., to present a petition for the government to create jobs through public works projects. The march consisted of about 500 individuals, many of whom were unemployed workers and their families who rallied for economic reform and the construction of roads to stimulate job growth.

Initiated by Jacob Coxey in Ohio.

First organized march to Washington, D.C.

Demanded government job creation efforts.

Highlighted economic crisis of the 1890s.

What Happened?

Coxey's Army began its journey in Massillon, Ohio, driven by the economic hardship that followed the Panic of 1893. Jacob Coxey, motivated by his observations of increasing unemployment and poverty, organized this grassroots movement to advocate for job creation through government-funded public works. His proposals included a plan for a road construction project that would not only provide immediate employment but also improve the nation's infrastructure. As the march commenced, it attracted participants who shared a common grievance over the dire economic conditions, forming a diverse collection of laborers, farmers, and their supporters. Traveling on foot, the marchers faced various challenges, including harsh weather conditions, limited supplies, and opposition from local authorities. Along the way, they gained media attention, which amplified their cause and objectives. This march was significant not only for its size but for its role in the developing American labor movement, emphasizing the need for state intervention in the economy during times of crisis. Upon reaching Washington, D.C., Coxey and his followers sought to demand an audience with Congress to present their grievances directly. However, they were met with hostility, and Coxey was arrested for trespassing on the Capitol grounds while attempting to deliver their petition.

Why Does it Matter?

Coxey's Army is interesting as it symbolizes one of the first organized mass protests aimed at the U.S. government to address economic injustices. The event highlighted widespread poverty during the Great Depression of the 1890s and sparked conversations around labor rights and government responsibility in economic crises. It set a precedent for future protests and influenced later movements advocating for workers' rights.

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