Massachusetts AFL-CIO Scholarship Practice Exam

What significant action did Theodore Roosevelt take during the 1902 hard coal strike?

1. Called for the use of federal troops

2. Increased military presence on site

3. Refused to act as a neutral force

4. Called for arbitration instead of using troops

The correct answer is: Called for arbitration instead of using troops

The significant action taken by Theodore Roosevelt during the 1902 hard coal strike was to call for arbitration instead of resorting to federal troops. This marked a pivotal moment in labor relations in the United States, as it demonstrated a shift in the government's approach to labor disputes. Traditionally, strikes had often been met with military force or other aggressive interventions, which typically favored business interests over the rights of workers. Roosevelt's decision to advocate for arbitration reflected his progressive beliefs and a recognition of the need to fairly negotiate between labor and management. By involving an impartial third party to help resolve the conflict, Roosevelt aimed to mediate the issues at hand and promote a peaceful resolution, which resulted in a compromise that benefited both the miners and the coal operators. This action not only helped to ease the immediate crisis but also set a precedent for future interactions between unions and the federal government, moving towards establishing a more balanced approach to labor relations.