Which major labor strike in 1902 did Roosevelt help resolve through arbitration, signaling federal involvement in labor disputes?

Which major labor strike in 1902 did Roosevelt help resolve through arbitration, signaling federal involvement in labor disputes?

• A. The Homestead Strike of 1892
• B. The Pullman Strike of 1894
• C. The Anthracite Coal Strike of 1902
• D. The Boston Police Strike of 1919

Answer: (C)

The key idea is how a president used arbitration to settle a major labor dispute, showing that the federal government would actively mediate between workers and owners. In 1902, miners in the anthracite coal region walked out over wages and hours. Roosevelt stepped in, insisting that a neutral arbitration panel hear both sides and issue a settlement, even hinting at taking action to keep the mines running if needed. The panel’s decision gave the miners a wage boost and a shorter workday, and both sides accepted. This move marked a shift in federal policy, demonstrating that the executive branch could intervene to protect public welfare by resolving labor conflicts through mediation rather than leaving them to chance or to force. The other strikes listed happened at different times and contexts and did not involve Roosevelt’s arbitration approach.

The key idea is how a president used arbitration to settle a major labor dispute, showing that the federal government would actively mediate between workers and owners. In 1902, miners in the anthracite coal region walked out over wages and hours. Roosevelt stepped in, insisting that a neutral arbitration panel hear both sides and issue a settlement, even hinting at taking action to keep the mines running if needed. The panel’s decision gave the miners a wage boost and a shorter workday, and both sides accepted. This move marked a shift in federal policy, demonstrating that the executive branch could intervene to protect public welfare by resolving labor conflicts through mediation rather than leaving them to chance or to force. The other strikes listed happened at different times and contexts and did not involve Roosevelt’s arbitration approach.