Since the Second World War the largest labor union in the United States, the Teamsters, has languished under a corrupt and violent leadership. Kickbacks from employers, links with organized crime including the Mafia, and intimidation of members who dared to speak out for democracy, have become the hallmarks of a once proud and powerful organization.

For the past decade and a half, however, Teamster bosses have faced a growing chal-lenge from the rank and file of the union. Organized through Teamsters for a Democratic Union, ordinary members have displayed great courage in creating what is now a powerful opposition demanding an accountable and honest leadership.

Rank and File Rebellion is a vivid and comprehensive account of their fight. Told through the stories of men and women across the United States and Canada who have been wildcat strike leaders, reform candidates for union office, and movement activists, this is the true story of the fight to regain control of the Teamsters union.

Here is a story of American labor, not covered by the six o'clock news, of working people - who are truly middle America - fighting for democracy, not only in the union, but in the workplace itself. — Studs Terkel

Dan La Botz's book should be read by every Teamster, by every labor union member, and by every citizen who is concerned about the future of democracy in our unions and in our nation. — Victor Reuther, former UAW leader

Dan La Botz was a founder of Teamsters for a Democratic Union and has since worked as a staff member for several unions. He currently teaches history and Latin American studies at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. He edits Mexican Labor News and Analysis, and is the author of several books on labor in Mexico, Indonesia, and the United States.


Publication
1990

Haymarket Series

336 pages


Paper
ISBN-13: 978 0 86091 505 8
US$20