July 20, 1934: strike massacre in Minneapolis

On this day in 1934, police in Minneapolis opened fire on striking truck drivers, killing two and wounding around 70 more. Within weeks, the Teamsters were a national force.

In 1934, Minneapolis was a major cargo hub for the Midwest. Unlike today, the Teamster’s drivers unions had been split by industry; a successful strike in February by the coal drivers union, led by militant Trotskyites, prompted the various brothers to join forces.

Many companies did not recognize the consolidated union, however, so on May 16, the strike began. An agreement was struck during the summer, but when companies reneged on part of it, the strike began anew on July 16.

On July 20, a single truck, escorted by police, drove to the central market area to make a delivery. A group of picketers wielding clubs cut off the truck, and police opened fire – then turned and fired at others who were coming to their aid. In all, two workers died and 67 were injured.

A new settlement was soon reached, and the Teamsters began to transform into a national powerhouse. It also propelled Farrell Dobbs, a noted socialist and mentor to Jimmy Hoffa, into the spotlight.

For more on the strike, visit the Minnesota History Center.

Image: unknown (1934) from the National Archives