New Book on Eugene Debs, Giant of Labor Movement and Presidential Candidate

Eugene Debs is one of the most important working class leaders in the history of the United States, yet most working people have never heard of him. He was in the 1877 national railway strike and later formed the American Railway Workers Union ARU. He organized the Pullman strike and was charged by the government for defying a court injunction against it. He was convicted and served 6 months in prison.

This new book The Selected Writings of Eugene V. Debs, Vol. I, which is subtitled Building Solidarity on the Tracks, 1877–1892, makes readily accessible documents by one of the pivotal figures in the labor movement. Illuminating nineteenth century working-class history, particularly the complex and shifting situation in the transportation industry, this volume provides a basis for deeper understanding of Debs and his role later during the glory days of the Socialist Party of America. In 1912, he also went to jail for opposing the First World War. He was an IWW member, became a socialist, and formed the Socialist Party of America, and while in prison ran for president and received 6 % of the vote.

Co-editor David Walters will preside.