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Workers Unite: The International 150 Years Later

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Workers Unite!: The International 150 Years Later

by Stephen M. Feldman

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2984 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	410 pages

150 years ago, the International Workingmen's Association (IWA),also known as the First International, was founded in London. This organization, which brought together trade unions and workers' organizations from across Europe and beyond, played a pivotal role in the development of the labor movement. The International provided a platform for workers to share ideas, organize, and fight for their rights. It also helped to spread the ideas of socialism and communism, which would have a profound impact on the world.

The Founding of the International

The International was founded on September 28, 1864, at a meeting of workers' representatives from Britain, France, Germany, Italy, and Poland. The meeting was chaired by Karl Marx, who would become one of the International's most influential members. The International's goal was to unite workers of all countries in the fight for their common interests. Marx believed that capitalism was an inherently exploitative system, and that workers could only achieve liberation through international cooperation.

The International quickly grew in size and influence. By 1869, it had over 800,000 members in 15 countries. The International played a key role in organizing strikes and other forms of workers' resistance. It also helped to establish trade unions and other organizations to protect workers' rights.

The Legacy of the International

The International was dissolved in 1876, but its legacy continues to this day. The International's ideas of workers' unity and internationalism have inspired generations of workers. The International also helped to lay the foundation for the modern labor movement. Many of the trade unions and other organizations that exist today can trace their roots back to the International.

The International's impact can also be seen in the world of politics. The International helped to spread the ideas of socialism and communism, which would eventually lead to the formation of political parties and trade unions around the world. The International also helped to inspire the Russian Revolution of 1917, which established the world's first socialist state.

The Relevance of the International Today

The International's legacy is still relevant today. The world is facing a number of challenges, including economic inequality, climate change, and the rise of authoritarianism. These challenges require international cooperation and solidarity. The International's ideas of workers' unity and internationalism can help us to meet these challenges and build a better future for all.

The International was a pioneering organization that played a pivotal role in the development of the labor movement. Its ideas of workers' unity and internationalism continue to inspire workers and activists around the world. The International's legacy is a reminder that workers can achieve great things when they stand together and fight for their common interests.

Sources

The Inaugural Address of the International Working Men's Association
The General Council of the International Working Men's Association and the First International
International Workingmen's Association
First International

Workers Unite!: The International 150 Years Later

by Stephen M. Feldman

5 out of 5