Creating the TGWU 1920–22

Abstract

The syndicalist vision of ‘One Big Union’ resulted in the more limited project, led by Bevin, of the amalgamation of 22 road transport dock and waterway unions to form the TGWU. This chapter examines the process of amalgamation set against the impact of the economic downturn which resulted in high rates of unemployment and an attack on wage rates in the staple industries, coal mining in particular. The inconclusive fight back in which the TGWU as part of the Triple Alliance, played a major role, was held responsible for the ‘Black Friday’ 1921 and the subsequent defeat of the miners.