Today in Labor History October 22, 1790: Native American forces defeated the United States, ending the Harmar Campaign of the Northwest Indian War. President Washington had ordered General Josiah Harmar to lead forces on a “punitive expedition” into the Shawnee and Miami lands as retaliation for the killings of American settlers. Chief Little Turtle led the Miami and Chief Blue Jacket led the Shawnee on the Native American side. They dealt the U.S. its worst defeat to date. The only worse defeat was at the Battle of Little Bighorn. As a result, Little Turtle became an Indigenous hero.
October 22, 1877: The Blantyre mining disaster in Scotland killed 207 miners. It was Scotland’s worst ever mining accident. Two other disasters occurred at the Blantyre mines in 1878 and 1879.
Today in Labor History October 22, 1905: Up to 50,000 people joined the uprising in Santiago, Chile—part of the “Semana Roja” (Red Week). Demonstrators looted grocery stores and attacked police stations, telephone and telegraph lines and private residences. They were protesting against high food prices. Protests also occurred in Argentina, were police massacred 200 demonstrators in Argentina. Popular outrage swept the country leading to a General Strike.
October 22, 1956: Russian troops began to advance on Budapest against students and workers who were demonstrating in solidarity with Polish workers.
Today in Labor History October 22, 1962 : Nelson Mandela’s trial for treason began on this date.
October 22, 1963: More than 200,000 students boycotted schools in Chicago to protest de facto segregation.
Today in Labor History October 22, 1981: The United States Federal Labor Relations Authority votes to decertify the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization (PATCO) for its strike the previous August.