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The 1984 miners’ strike in the United Kingdom stands as a pivotal moment of working-class resistance against Margaret Thatcher’s neoliberal policies. Approximately 150,000 miners valiantly stood up against harsh repression to safeguard their jobs and fundamental social and labor rights, turning their strike into a global symbol of defiance and unity.
This was no ordinary struggle, as the livelihoods of countless families were at stake. Led by the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), the miners waged a fierce battle against the conservative government’s agenda to lay off 20,000 workers, shut down coal mines, and diminish union influence.
In the face of an already deteriorating social climate, this government-led assault on the working class served as a catalyst for widespread unrest. But despite the miners’ unwavering resolve and resilience, the nearly year-long strike ultimately ended in defeat and the closure of numerous pits.
Nevertheless, the legacy of the 1984 miners’ strike transcends mere defeat. It endures as a profound testament in the collective memory of the working class in the UK and across Europe. While the miners could not halt the Thatcher government’s agenda, their courage and defiance continue to inspire future generations to persevere in the struggle for their rights and dignity.
Today, the miners’ strike serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring battle for social justice and equality in a world increasingly dominated by corporate interests and anti-worker policies.
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Text: Andreína Chávez. Illustration: Pablo Kalaka.
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