Why the Dockers’ Strike Mattered Flashcards

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What was the 'docker's tanner' and why did winning it matter?

It was a wage of six pence an hour. Winning it showed that low‑paid, unskilled workers could force bosses to raise pay.

A huge number of unskilled dock workers joined together in a union and won, proving New Unionism could succeed.

Its success encouraged many thousands of other unskilled workers to join unions, so general labour unions grew quickly.

Around 100,000 workers stopped work, badly disrupting trade through London’s docks. This showed how much power mass strikes could have.

They gained higher pay, more secure hours and union recognition, so they were less at the mercy of casual hiring.

Donations from other workers and even people overseas kept the strikers fed, helping them hold out until the employers gave in.

It showed that a large, peaceful and well‑organised strike could win big changes without riots or violence.

It showed employers that ignoring unions could shut down trade, so many became more willing to negotiate with union leaders.

Some strike leaders later became MPs, and the strike strengthened the idea that workers needed their own voice in Parliament.

Like the Match Girls, the dockers used a strike and publicity to win better conditions, but on a much bigger scale, proving this new tactic worked.