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

May 1st, 1894

May 1st, 1894

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

130 years, 10 months, 14 days ago

Location

Washington, D.C., United States

Category

Social Movements & Civil Rights

People
  • Jacob Coxey
Links & References
Tags

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

Coxey's Army was a significant protest march in which a group of unemployed workers, led by Jacob Coxey, marched from Ohio to Washington, D.C. to demand government action on unemployment. The march, beginning in March, culminated in their arrival at the Capitol on May 1, where they advocated for a federal jobs program funded by public works projects. It highlighted the social struggles of the time during the economic depression.

Led by Jacob Coxey from Ohio to D.C.

Protested against unemployment and poverty.

Demanded federal jobs through public works.

Met with police and faced arrests upon arrival.

What Happened?

Coxey's Army was a landmark protest in American history, organized by Jacob Coxey, a businessman and reformer from Ohio. In the wake of the economic depression that began in the early 1890s, rampant unemployment and poor working conditions galvanized many Americans to take action. Starting in March, Coxey and his supporters embarked on a march from Massillon, Ohio, to the nation's capital, covering hundreds of miles by foot and train. Their objective was to demand that the federal government provide jobs through a public works program funded by issuing paper money. As they traveled, hundreds of supporters joined, and by the time they reached Washington, they represented a cross-section of the discontented working class.Upon their arrival in Washington, D.C., on May 1, Coxey and his followers attempted to present their demands directly to Congress. They marched towards the Capitol and were met with a significant police presence, which had been ordered to prevent their demonstration. The marchers set up a camp at a nearby vacant lot and attempted to lobby lawmakers. However, their efforts were met with resistance, and many participants were arrested for trespassing. Despite the setbacks, the event marked a pivotal moment in the American labor movement and heightened public awareness of the plight of the unemployed, reflecting the growing dissatisfaction with social and economic inequalities.

Why Does it Matter?

Coxey's Army is interesting because it was one of the first large-scale organized protests in American history, laying the groundwork for future social movements and labor rights advocacy. The event emphasized the importance of addressing economic inequality and the role of government in regulating and supporting employment opportunities for the populace, setting precedents for later protests and reforms.

Discover More Historic Events from May 1st

Social Movements & Civil Rights

Consumer Rebellion Against Loblaw Companies

May 1st, 2024 0 years ago

A nationwide boycott against Loblaw Companies began in Canada, sparked by rising food prices and accusations of corporate greed. The movement united consumers, online activists, and advocacy groups, urging a change in pricing policies. Various social media campaigns used the hashtags like #LoblawBoycott, generating significant public discourse against the grocery giant. Many Canadians expressed solidarity by sharing their own experiences with price increases and advocating for fair pricing in the essential grocery sector, especially amidst economic uncertainties.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Naruhito Becomes Emperor of Japan

May 1st, 2019 5 years ago

Naruhito ascended to the throne, succeeding his father, Akihito, marking the start of the Reiwa period. The ceremony was held at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, attended by dignitaries from around the world. The ascension signifies a new era aimed at peace and harmony. Naruhito, embodying Japanese traditions, expressed a commitment to serving the nation.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Naxalite IED Blast Kills Sixteen Soldiers

May 1st, 2019 5 years ago

In a significant incident in Gadchiroli district, Naxalite insurgents targeted an anti-Naxal operations team, resulting in the deaths of sixteen army soldiers, including a driver. The soldiers were killed by an improvised explosive device (IED) blast. This attack highlights the ongoing conflict between the Indian government forces and Maoist insurgents in the region, which has been a long-standing issue in India’s internal security landscape.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

SDF Launches Operations Against ISIL in Deir ez-Zor

May 1st, 2018 6 years ago

The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) resumed their campaign in Deir ez-Zor to eliminate the remaining presence of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) near the Iraq-Syria border, aiming to solidify control in a strategically vital area. This operation involved coordinated efforts to target ISIL hideouts and disrupt their activities, marking a significant move in the fight against terrorism in the region. The SDF, backed by coalition airstrikes, focused its efforts on reclaiming territory and securing the border against any potential resurgence of ISIL.

Continue Reading
Religion & Philosophy

Beatification of Pope John Paul II

May 1st, 2011 13 years ago

Pope Benedict XVI beatified Pope John Paul II at a ceremony in St. Peter's Square, Vatican City, attended by over a million people. The occasion marked the first step toward John Paul II’s canonization, recognized for his influential role in the Church and global politics. His papacy spanned from 1978 to 2005, during which he became a symbol of peace and reconciliation.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Faisal Shahzad's Times Square car bomb attempt

May 1st, 2010 14 years ago

Faisal Shahzad attempted to detonate a car bomb in Times Square, New York City. The device, packed with explosives and shrapnel, was discovered by street vendors who alerted law enforcement. Shahzad, a Pakistani-American, was arrested shortly after the incident, revealing a detailed plan to instigate fear and chaos. His motivation stemmed from U.S. military actions in Muslim countries, illustrating a growing trend in domestic terrorism. Fortunately, the bomb did not detonate, avoiding potential casualties.

Continue Reading