What did the Great Railroad Strike of 1877 symbolize about government attitudes towards labor?

The Great Railroad Strike of 1877 is a significant event that illustrated the government’s alignment with employers during labor disputes. The strike erupted in response to wage cuts and poor working conditions, showcasing the frustrations of railroad workers. However, as the strike spread across several states, the federal and state governments quickly intervened, often siding with the railroad companies.

For instance, President Rutherford B. Hayes deployed federal troops to break the strike, resulting in violent confrontations and further emphasizing the government's role in protecting corporate interests over those of the workers. This response highlighted a broader trend of the late 19th century, where the government generally favored business owners and viewed labor strikes as threats to economic stability and order.

Consequently, the strike encapsulated the prevailing attitudes of the time, which prioritized the interests of employers and displayed significant hostility towards organized labor efforts, reinforcing the notion that the government would intervene to maintain the status quo that benefited business interests.