Skip to main content
Britain's first strike commemorated in Glasgow

TRADE unionists from across Scotland made their way to a small burial ground in Glasgow’s East End today to remember the nation’s first strike and the birth of a movement.

Addressing the rally, Unite Community’s Keith Stoddart spoke at length on the how on September 3 1797 striking weavers were, on the orders of the city council, read the Riot Act by the 39 Regiment.

Troops then launched a brutal attack on workers which left six dead and dozens wounded.

Support the Morning Star
You can read five articles for free every month,
but please consider supporting us by becoming a subscriber.
Similar stories
Britain / 1 May 2025
1 May 2025
Union members on the picket line outside Scottish Water's scientific services department at Juniper House in Edinburgh, as Scottish Water workers go on strike in a dispute over pay and grading, April 22, 2025
Britain / 22 April 2025
22 April 2025
Britain / 30 May 2024
30 May 2024