Between 1934 and 1939 a wave of violent strikes and riots swept across the Caribbean. Roger Seifert explores how British political parties, trade unions and pressure groups of the labour movement responded to these colonial struggles.
Using diverse primary sources Seifert shows similarities between these disputes and solidarity (or otherwise) with Caribbean workers. The book explores deep ideological divisions on labour, colonialism and political rights within the British Left, which still shape politics today. A timely study of racism, empire and class, this is essential reading for anyone interested in labour history, trade unionism and global inequality.
Table of Contents:
Preface
1. Revolt and Reform
2. Strike Causes: Practical and Political
3. Labouring for Others
4. ‘Early Warning Bubbles’ 1934-36
5. The Cauldron Boils Over, 1937-39
6. The British Labour Movement’s Reaction to the West Indian Strikes and Riots
7. Solidarity Forever?
About the Author :
Roger Seifert is Emeritus Professor of Industrial Relations at the University of Wolverhampton.
Review :
‘Struggle, solidarity, race, class, and conflict - it’s all here. Seifert’s scholarly focus is unflinching and timely. An essential, excellent read.'
Professor Jean Jenkins, Cardiff University.
‘Seifert’s book is engaging in its questioning of the schisms across the political left and British labour movement, exposing insight between class, labour protest, race, union governance, and colonial power. It adds new debate to the meanings of and pathways for solidarity.'
Professor Tony Dundon, Work & Employment Studies, University of Limerick.
