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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: Hardback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 01 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 was 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 this time is a unique and invaluable collection of oral histories, the sole document of its kind. For 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 book, complemented by introductory material, maps, and photographs. The volume's vivid, conversational style invites readers into the lived experiences of miners, shedding light on the motivations behind their armed resistance against anti-union forces in some of the nation's largest labor uprisings.

To mark the centennial of the Blair Mountain Battle in 2021, On Dark and Bloody Ground has been published. This comprehensive volume 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.

Anne Lawrence's dedication to preserving the memories and stories of the West Virginia Mine Wars is truly commendable. Her efforts have not only enriched our understanding of this pivotal period in American history but also contributed to the ongoing struggle for worker rights and social justice.

On Dark and Bloody Ground is a testament to the power of oral history and the importance of preserving the legacies of our past. It is a must-read for anyone interested in labor history, social movements, and the fight for worker empowerment.

Weight: 352g
Dimension: 216 x 140 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781952271083

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