The Labor Movement Awakens

The Belle Époque saw explosive growth in labor organization despite legal restrictions. The Waldeck-Rousseau law of 1884 finally legalized trade unions, unleashing decades of suppressed organizing energy. By 1900, the Confédération Générale du Travail (CGT) claimed 500,000 members.

The movement developed distinctive French characteristics. Revolutionary syndicalism, theorized by Georges Sorel and practiced by leaders like Victor Griffuelhes, rejected parliamentary politics for direct action. The general strike would overthrow capitalism in one magnificent gesture. This romantic vision inspired workers while terrifying authorities.

Strikes multiplied dramatically. The Carmaux glass workers' strike of 1895, immortalized by Émile Zola, showed new solidarity. When owners fired union leader Jean Jaurès (later the socialist leader), workers occupied factories. The strike's failure didn't diminish its symbolic importance—workers had challenged property rights directly.

Women workers faced double exploitation. The matchmakers' strike of 1895 revealed horrific conditions: phosphorus poisoning causing "phossy jaw," wages below subsistence, sexual harassment by foremen. When they struck, male union leaders initially refused support, considering women's work temporary until marriage. The women persisted alone, winning small improvements and large awareness.

The seamstresses' strike of 1901 demonstrated female organizing capability. These workers, creating luxury garments for worldwide export, earned pittances while fashion houses profited enormously. Their strike during fashion season threatened international orders. The sight of elegant women who normally wore their creations supporting picket lines created powerful imagery.