Advanced Placement US History (AP US History) Practice Exam

What event does the term "Homestead Strike" refer to?

1. A strike involving steelworkers at a Carnegie plant

2. A labor dispute involving railroad workers

3. A labor union strike in the agricultural sector

4. A protest against land policies in the West

The correct answer is: A strike involving steelworkers at a Carnegie plant

The term "Homestead Strike" specifically refers to a significant labor dispute that occurred in 1892 at the Homestead Steel Works in Pennsylvania, which was owned by Andrew Carnegie's Carnegie Steel Company. The strike was initiated by steelworkers who were members of the Amalgamated Association of Iron and Steel Workers. It was a response to wage cuts and the implementation of more stringent working conditions following the expiration of their union contract. This event is key in labor history as it highlighted the intense conflict between labor and capital during the Industrial Revolution in the United States. After negotiations failed and tensions escalated, the company hired private security agents from the Pinkerton National Detective Agency to break the strike, leading to violent clashes. The strike ultimately resulted in a significant setback for the labor movement, as the union's power was greatly diminished by the end of the confrontation. While other options represent various labor movements and disputes, the Homestead Strike is distinctly identified with the steelworkers at Carnegie's plant, making it a pivotal moment in discussions about labor rights and industrial relations in the late 19th century.