Federal Action Prevents Possible Rail Strike

The transcript discusses a presidential order that empowers the War Department to manage railroads under Lieutenant General Somervell. This action follows a White House conference with railroad leaders, which ended in a deadlock. However, two days after the government seized control, the strike was called off, ensuring the continuation of train operations. The railroads, crucial for wartime transportation, carry 90% of the nation's wartime logistics. Secretary of War Stimson expresses opposition to the threatened strike.

What action did the presidential order take regarding the railroads?

• It privatized the railroads.

• It dissolved the railroad brotherhoods.

• It empowered the War Department to manage them.

• It increased railroad fares.

Who was placed in charge of the railroads under the presidential order?

• The railroad brotherhoods

• Secretary of War Stimson

• The President

• Lieutenant General Somervell

What happened two days after the government took control of the railroads?

• The strike continued.

• The railroad brotherhoods took over.

• The strike was called off.

• The railroads were privatized.

What percentage of wartime transportation was carried by American railroads?

• 50%

• 90%

• 70%

• 100%

What was Secretary of War Stimson's stance on the threatened strike?

• He supported the strike.

• He was indifferent to the strike.

• He offered a grim opposition.

• He encouraged the strike.