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Anne T. Lawrence

On Dark and Bloody Ground: An Oral History of the West Virginia Mine Wars

On Dark and Bloody Ground: An Oral History of the West Virginia Mine Wars

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  • More about On Dark and Bloody Ground: An Oral History of the West Virginia Mine Wars

In 1972, Anne Lawrence conducted interviews with participants and observers of the Battle of Blair Mountain and other Appalachian mine wars of the 1920s and 1930s. This oral history collection, the only document of its kind, is now published as a book, providing a vivid and conversational insight into the miners' lived experiences and the reasons behind their armed resistance against anti-union forces in some of the nation's largest labor uprisings.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 175 pages
Publication date: 30 August 2021
Publisher: West Virginia University Press


In 1972, Anne Lawrence embarked on a remarkable journey to West Virginia, at the invitation of the Miners for Democracy movement. Her mission? To conduct in-depth interviews with participants and observers of the iconic Battle of Blair Mountain and other Appalachian mine wars of the 1920s and 1930s. What she gathered during those pivotal years is a unique and invaluable collection of oral histories, the sole document of its kind. For many years, this informal typescript volume circulated among those passionate about the subject, gaining a nearly legendary status. Now, for the first time, these key selections are published as a captivating book, complemented by introductory material, maps, and photographs.

The volume's vivid, conversational style transports readers into the lived experiences of miners, shedding light on the motivations behind their courageous armed resistance against anti-union forces in some of the nation's largest labor uprisings.

On Dark and Bloody Ground includes a preface by renowned public historian Catherine Venable Moore and an afterword by Cecil E. Roberts, former president of the United Mine Workers of America. This comprehensive volume not only provides a historical account but also serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of the miners who fought for their rights and the betterment of their communities.

As we commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Blair Mountain, this oral history serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who battled for a better future. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of labor activism and the ongoing struggle for worker justice.

Weight: 264g
Dimension: 141 x 215 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781952271090

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