Watch The Wobblies

The Wobblies is a 1979 documentary film that delves into the history of one of the most radical labor unions in the United States, the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW). Directed by Stewart Bird and Deborah Shaffer, the film sheds light on the struggles and achievements of the IWW, also known as the Wobblies, during the early 20th century.

The movie features interviews with scholars, historians, and surviving members of the IWW, as well as archival footage and photographs that illustrate the history of the organization. The film begins by providing a background on the development of the American labor movement, with the establishment of the American Federation of Labor (AFL) in the late 19th century.

The AFL was a conservative union that represented only skilled workers and was focused on negotiating better wages and working conditions for its members. However, in 1905, a group of radical trade unionists gathered in Chicago to form a new union that would represent all workers, regardless of skill level, gender, or race.

This new union was the IWW, which aimed to overthrow capitalism and institute a society based on workers' control of the means of production.

The Wobblies were known for their revolutionary tactics, such as conducting strikes, sit-ins, and sabotage. They also developed a unique culture, with songs, poetry, and artwork that reflected their values and their struggle against the capitalist system.

The movie follows the IWW's growth and influence, both in the United States and abroad. The Wobblies were at the forefront of numerous labor struggles, including the Lawrence textile strike in 1912 and the Western Mine Strike in 1913-14.

Despite facing opposition from the government, business leaders, and other unions, the IWW continued to attract new members, especially in the mining, lumber, and agricultural industries. However, their radicalism also made them targets of repression, with many Wobblies being jailed, beaten, or even killed for their activism.

The film also explores the IWW's involvement in the World War I era, where they opposed the United States' entry into the war and refused to support it. This led to the federal government launching a massive crackdown against the IWW, with thousands of members and sympathizers being arrested, put on trial, and often convicted without due process.

The Wobblies captures the spirit and passion of this radical labor movement, which aimed to unite workers across the country and around the world. The film also explores the internal tensions and debates within the IWW, as members struggled to balance their revolutionary ideals with practical strategies for improving workers' lives.

Overall, The Wobblies is a fascinating and inspiring look at a pivotal period in American labor history. It highlights the importance of collective action and solidarity, as well as the ongoing struggle to achieve justice and equality for all workers.

The Wobblies is a 1979 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.