PA and OH mine workers in the late 1910s, early 1920s; John L. Lewis in early 1920s, 1940s, 1950

John L. Lewis became president of the United Mine Workers in 1919. Less than a year later, he initiated his first major industrywide strike, leading 500,000 miners to stop work until a more favorable contract was negotiated.

In what year did John L. Lewis become the president of the Mine Workers?

What significant action did John L. Lewis take less than a year after becoming president?

How many miners participated in the industrywide strikes called by Lewis?

What was the reason for the miners leaving their jobs?

What was the goal of the strikes organized by John L. Lewis?