The issues regarding textile workers began when mill owners made budget cuts in the late 1920's. They downsized their worker's, but left the amount of work done the same. This means that the work that 3 workers used to do was compressed all into one worker. They also cut costs by lowering the worker's wages. This downsizing was known as "the stretch out". At first, the remaining workers were grateful that they still have jobs despite the lower pay, larger workload, and terrible work conditions. Eventually, the textile workers became discontent with their conditions, and went on strike demanding higher pay, and better work conditions. The mill owners disregarded the strike, as they knew it wouldn't last long. The workers needed the money from the job, and without the job they wouldn't survive through the economic depression. Strikers sought assistance from the National Recovery Administration (NRA), but in the cases that the NRA investigated only one case was in the worker's favor. Overall, the strike was a failure because mill owners continued to neglect improving working conditions or wages.
1. Why did the NRA almost exclusively favor the textile factory over the workers? What made the administration biased?
2. Do you think the strike would yield more significant results if it didn't take place during the great depression?
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