All tagged Union

Winfield Scott: First Commanding General of the Union Army

Who was early 19th century America’s greatest general? Some may say the generals who eventually became presidents like William Henry Harrison or Zachary Taylor, but both men have their issues: Harrison died a month into his presidency while Taylor was part of President James K. Polk’s plan to “possibly” spark a war with Mexico. In the early 19th century, America’s greatest general was central to many major conflicts; it was this experience that made him the first commanding general of Union forces. However, he only held the job for six months, ultimately leaving the post due to his age. If we’re to understand how one man—Winfield Scott—became so influential, we must examine his life.

The War on Labor

In recent months, organized labor has scored a major victory against one of the largest corporations in the world by unionizing the Amazon workplace, resulting in the first Amazon Labor Union. At the same time, employees at Starbucks locations across the United States have begun organizing to secure better hours, better pay, and better working conditions. However, these movements and others like them have historically encountered heavy opposition from state and corporate interests. This article will examine the history of anti-labor corporate practices in the U.S. and how these attitudes, policies, and histories affect the relationship between labor and corporations today.