The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory:
The Fire That Ignited a Change in Worker Rights
Thesis
In 1911, the horrific Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire compelled a nationwide call for change. This tragedy prompted crucial labor reforms, shaping comprehensive laws to protect workers, with a focus on improving conditions for women and immigrants and elevating workplace safety standards.This tragedy ignited public outcry and marked a turning point in history for workplace safety and human rights.
"Triangle Waist Company owners Isaac Harris (front row near center with hands folded) and Max Blanck (in a dark suit to the right of Harris) with a group, probably visitors and workers at one of their factories," 1910. Cornell University, ILR School, Kheel Center for Labor-Management, Documentation & Archives, Triangle Factory Fire Online Exhibit.
The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire: The Fire That Ignited A Change in Worker Rights
Nancy Ortiz, Zuleyka Macias and Ashley Bautista
Senior Division
Group Website
Media Time: 1:28 minutes
Student Composed Words: 1200 words
Process Paper: 499 words
"Three stories of a ten-floor building at the corner of Greene Street and Washington Place were burned yesterday, and while the fire was going on 141 young men and women at least 125 of them mere girls were burned to death or killed by jumping to the pavement below."
~ New York Times, March 26, 1911