Strikebreaker Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Historical Origins

• The term emerged in the late 19th century in the United States, during a time of increased labor organization and strikes.
• Some early strikebreakers were referred to as 'scabs,' a pejorative term that highlights the tension between striking workers and those who choose to work.
• The use of strikebreakers often led to violent confrontations, with many notable strikes in U.S. history resulting in clashes between workers and strikebreakers.

Labor Relations

• Strikebreakers can alter the dynamics of power during labor disputes by providing employers with a workforce despite active strikes.
• The presence of strikebreakers often prolongs strikes, as it lessens the urgency for employers to negotiate with striking workers.
• The moral implications of hiring strikebreakers often lead to divisions within communities and among families based on differing views on labor rights.

Media and Culture

• Strikebreakers have been depicted in literature and films, often embodying themes of conflict between labor rights and economic necessity.
• Contemporary portrayals sometimes highlight the human stories behind becoming a strikebreaker, portraying them as individuals facing financial struggles.
• Activist songs and folk tales frequently convey negative perceptions of strikebreakers, reinforcing solidarity among workers.

Current Context

• In recent years, the term has gained renewed attention during labor strikes in industries such as entertainment and technology, emphasizing ongoing debates about workers' rights.
• Social media has influenced the visibility of strikebreaking actions, with many calling out companies that employ strikebreakers during labor disputes.
• The rise of gig economy jobs has complicated the implications of strikebreaking, as many workers may not identify as part of a traditional labor force.

The term 'strikebreaker' emerged in the late 19th century during a period of increased labor unrest in the United States. Its origins can be traced back to a combination of the words 'strike' – referring to the organized refusal to work by employees – and 'breaker,' which implies someone who disrupts or undermines that action. The usage of strikebreakers has historically been a contentious issue, as they are often seen as undermining the efforts of workers striving for better conditions. During the height of industrialization, strikebreakers were employed by company owners to maintain production continuity, even when workers were demanding fair wages and improved working conditions. They played a critical role during several significant labor strikes, which only intensified the animosity between labor unions and employers. The term has retained its negative connotation in labor movements, and organizations advocating for workers’ rights typically condemn the practice of hiring strikebreakers as a means to weaken collective bargaining efforts.