In this issue of The Masses, Vol. X, No. 1, published in November and December of 1917, the focus lies on labor issues and the growing sentiments of industrial unionism among workers in America. The magazine delves into the struggles and conflicts faced by workers in various industries such as mining, railroads, and shipbuilding, highlighting their dissatisfaction with low wages and poor working conditions.
Notable is the solidarity shown between traditional trade unions and revolutionary groups like the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), despite historical animosities. This alliance is evident in the shared recognition of a common enemy and the pursuit of a more radical change in industry, albeit with varying approaches and timelines. The issue also showcases instances of collective bargaining and industrial unionism, such as the unique agreement among fourteen craft unions in Seattle, which reflects a shift towards wider labor organization to better tackle the evolving conditions in industries.
While the IWW is criticized for its utopian ideals and assumptions about employer solidarity, there is an acknowledgment of its role in expressing worker discontent and its complementary relationship with traditional unions in maintaining collective bargaining after periods of revolt. The magazine’s content suggests a growing acceptance of industrial unionism within the labor movement, signaling a potential shift from craft-based unions towards more encompassing organizations that cater to varying industry conditions.