The first issue of The Progressive Miner heralds the emergence of a new union, published September 16, 1932.

Today marks the 79th anniversary of the founding of the Progressive Miners of America. Outraged by John L. Lewis’ autocratic actions and and humiliated by sheriff’s deputies and vigilantes in the Mulkeytown March, thousands of Illinois miners abandoned the United Mine Workers to form a new union.

The founding convention was held September 1 – 3, 1932 in Gillespie, IL.

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